increase font size
Dr Andy Hancock, Dairy Australia.
The way we manage livestock is constantly changing, and the advent of virtual fencing and herding technologies represents a significant advance for pasture-based dairy farming, offering flexibility, efficiency, and improved animal welfare.
With recent legislative changes in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria, these innovations are now legal in all six dairying states, marking a major milestone for the industry.
So, what if virtual fencing? In simple terms, it's a system that creates invisible boundaries using GPS-enabled collars or ear tags. Instead of physical fences, livestock are guided by audio and vibrational cues when they approach a virtual boundary, followed by electrical cues if they cross the virtual boundary.
Very quickly, animals learn to respond to the audio and vibrational signals, reducing the need for manual herding or temporary fencing. Importantly, these systems are designed to avoid adverse welfare impacts, and safeguards are built into the technology and legislation.
Globally, several virtual fencing solutions exist, but currently in Australian dairy herds, Halter is the most broadly adopted. The technology is already well established in New Zealand, with around 200,000 cattle on the system, and approximately 20,000 in Tasmania. With legalisation now in NSW, South Australia and Victoria, we can expect broader adoption and new market entrants.
Until recently, virtual fencing was prohibited in NSW, South Australia and Victoria, due to animal welfare laws restricting electronic devices. That changed in December 2025r when NSW amended the prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation to allow virtual fencing for cattle under strict conditions. Victoria and South Australia have subsequently passed similar reforms, ensuring responsible use and clear welfare guidelines.
These changes mean dairy farmers can now explore virtual fencing as a practical tool to improve operations. Whilst farmers should adopt systems which suit their specific farm, some of the potential benefits include:
Like any new technology, it is important that virtual fencing is introduced in a considered way that does not cause unintended consequences. Animal welfare remains the top priority, and the newly developed legislation includes criteria for device approval, training requirements, and property-based use*. Farmers should choose reputable providers and stay informed about best practice guidelines.
Looking ahead, virtual fencing is more than a convenience - it's a strategic tool for modern dairy farming. By reducing labour pressures, improving productivity and safety, and supporting sustainability, it aligns with the industry's long-term goals. With legal barriers removed, now is the time for farmers to explore how this technology could potentially fit into their systems.
Dr Andy Hancock is sustainable animal care manager - Dairy Australia
Halter has announced the six winners of its 2026 One Year Free competition, marking the biggest year yet for the annual award and the first time the company has expanded the field beyond its usual line-up.
The man appointed to lead Gallagher's global Animal Management business through the next stage of growth believes the wearables boom is here.
Two months after unveiling a major upgrade to its beef product, Halter says its farmers are on track for major production gains and additional grass growth.
Twenty four young farmers from South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania have returned from a recent study tour of Ireland with practical insights, fresh thinking and an expanded network of peers.
Dairy farmers in the Australian state of Victoria had a record profitable 2022-23 season, thanks to high milk prices and carefully managed high costs.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.
For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.
An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.
With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.
OPINION: After hogging the media limelight for telling a NZ Chinese MP to "go back home", Winston Peters has decided…
OPINION: With fuel prices soaring, one would have expected most farmers to be reclaiming excise duty on petrol.
