Victorian cattle farmers are one step closer to accessing the benefits of virtual fencing and herding technology, with new regulations now being developed to support its use across the state.
Agriculture Victoria has announced that regulations for using virtual fencing and herding technology for cattle will be drafted following significant consultation with industry, manufacturers, and researchers. This engagement has focused on understanding the implications for animal welfare and how the technology can support more efficient and effective farm operations.
Further consultation will now take place with a range of stakeholders, including animal welfare organisations, with the final regulations expected by the end of the year.
In the meantime, a trial of Halter® virtual fencing technology is continuing at Agriculture Victoria’s Ellinbank SmartFarm in Gippsland. Running through to 30 June, the trial enables local farmers to observe the technology in action and consider its potential applications for their own operations.
Since July 2024, dairy cattle at the SmartFarm have been fitted with solar-powered smart collars. These collars use GPS and wireless technology to establish virtual fences and guide livestock to designated areas through electronic cues, managed via a mobile phone app. The system also allows farmers to monitor each animal’s location, health, and reproductive status in real-time.
The collars issue a series of audio and vibration cues, followed by a stimulus, to discourage animals from leaving the designated zones, thereby managing livestock movement without the need for traditional physical fencing.
The development of clear regulations is expected to support safe and effective adoption of the technology across Victoria, with a focus on enhancing animal welfare, farm productivity, staff wellbeing, and operational safety.
Agriculture Victoria is also contributing to the creation of the Australian Animal Welfare Guide for Virtual Fencing, led by the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. The guide will support a consistent national framework for the use of virtual fencing and ensure best-practice welfare outcomes are upheld.
