NSW Cattle Company Fined $45,000 for Biosecurity Breach, June 01

Argyle Foods Pastoral Pty Ltd, a NSW-based livestock company, was fined $45,000 in November 2025 for moving cattle into Queensland without proper records. The company inadvertently triggered the investigation by contacting Queensland Department of Primary Industries with an inquiry. The fine is the largest ever recorded under Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014, setting a precedent for livestock compliance enforcement.

How the Company Tipped Off Authorities

Argyle Foods Pastoral, operated by brothers Bryce and Lachlan Graham, contacted Queensland DPI with an inquiry that revealed the illegal cattle movement. The investigation uncovered 22 offences, including failures to notify the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), maintain accurate records, and register as a biosecurity entity. Lachlan Graham pleaded guilty in Brisbane Magistrates Court. Acting Magistrate Maryanne May accepted that the company had not deliberately disregarded the law and had genuine welfare concerns for the animals.

Cattle Movement Posed Disease Risk

Between June and September 2023, the company engaged a drover to move several thousand head of cattle along Queensland stock routes before trucking them to agistment properties. The cattle were later found to be disease-free. However, Queensland DPI chief biosecurity officer Rachel Chay noted that untracked livestock carry risks of cattle tick, disease, and parasites. The company failed to notify NLIS, a key tool used to trace livestock during disease outbreaks.

Largest Fine Under State Biosecurity Law

The $45,000 penalty represents the largest amount ever imposed under Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014. No conviction was recorded against the company. The case demonstrates the state’s commitment to enforcing livestock movement rules, even when violations occur unintentionally. Queensland DPI said the investigation was triggered when the company contacted the department with an inquiry.

Final Thoughts

The $45,000 fine signals tougher enforcement of livestock tracking rules in Queensland. Investors in agricultural supply chains should note that biosecurity compliance failures now carry material financial penalties, even when unintentional.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.