Guide for small-scale livestock processors released

The state government has released a draft roadmap for those seeking to establish a micro- or mobile-meat processing facility.

The roadmap provides guidance on the approval process required to establish such facilities, with separate guidelines for different types of operations.

Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce said the public could have its say on the draft roadmap.

“We know just how important our smaller livestock producers are to our local agrifood sector and paddock-to-plate brand,” Mr Pearce said.

“This is about streamlining and simplifying to make life easier for our farmers, all while maintaining Tasmania’s strong reputation for food safety and environmental protection.

“We are delivering for producers who say they want to see more localised processing options that fit smaller business models, and we want to make it as easy as possible for that to happen.

“The draft roadmap brings together information from multiple regulators into one clear, practical resource, helping both new and existing operators understand what’s required, who to talk to, and how to get their projects up and running.”

The roadmap was developed by a working group that included the Southern Tasmanian Association of Meat Processors (STAMP), SPROUT Tasmania, TasFarmers, Government departments, local councils and other industry representatives.

Consultation on the roadmap closes on March 30.