PLANS FOR STATE-WIDE MANDATORY HORSE IDENTIFICATION

All horses across the state could soon be micro-chipped under a new mandatory identification program.

The idea was originally put forward by the New South Wales police force’s rural crime unit, in a bid to reduce stock theft.

But the state’s Department of Primary Industries says the plan could benefit disease control and traceability, as well as improve rider and handler safety.

Horse owners are now being asked to complete an online survey on the department’s website, in a bid to gauge interest.

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