Discussions around livestock ranger squad continue as hurdles revealed

TALKS among officials to develop a livestock ranger squad are continuing.

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TALKS to develop a Livestock ranger squad continue, with the NT Cattlemen's Association meeting with the Deputy Chief Minister and Police Commissioner last week.

The Livestock Squad, which would employ 16 rangers across the Northern Territory, would act as a watchdog for the industry and deliver vehicle registration and licensing services for the pastoral sector and Indigenous communities.

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NTCA chief executive Ashley Manicaros said he had a positive meeting with Police and Agribusiness Minister Nicole Manison, and NT Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker.

Although there hadn’t been any official progress, Mr Manicaros left the meeting confident the establishment of a squad was closer.

But some of the hurdles were also brought to light.

“There are legislative challenges to the establishment of a ranger program based on the concept but I left feeling the commissioner is committed to creating a solution,” Mr Manicaros said.

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“The challenges also relate to financial resourcing, however the plan has a potential funding source which should be explored further by the government.”

A draft of the livestock ranger scheme suggested it would operate with a $5m budget and on a “fee for service” arrangement, while also operating under in-kind support for assets such as office space.

Ms Manison and Mr Chalker were unable to provide an update on the Livestock Squad.