The Australian Wagyu Association has announced one of the most significant developments in the the breed’s history, launching a fully-independent, world-leading Wagyu genetic evaluation platform in early 2026.
The project was launched at an AWA technical workshop in Brisbane this morning.
The AWA implemented a strategic program of review of AWA’s genetic evaluation, databasing and tools in late 2021. This was undertaken in an environment of significant change within the marketplace for commercial databasing and genetic evaluation solutions.
Following a four-year program of targeted planning, investment and system renewal, the AWA will introduce the next generation of Wagyu Breeding Values (WBVs), a purpose-designed, Wagyu-specific evaluation powered by the largest global Wagyu dataset.
More than 400,000 animals from 42 countries are now included in the Association’s genetic evaluation, giving the AWA unparalleled capability and reach in global beef genetics.
The AWA’s departure from the BreedPlan platform may contribute to ongoing financial challenges faced by the ABRI’s 40-year old performance recording platform, as set out in this earlier Beef Central story. Wagyu breeders have been one of the three largest contributors to BreedPlan registrations up to this point.
The departure means AWA members can now apply all the data being collected on Wagyu-specific parameters, that drive genetic analysis, in more advanced software.
The new model for the first time allows the use of any genotype, for example Red Wagyu, Black Wagyu, Red/Black crosses and crossbred Wagyu genotypes using maternal genetics from other breeds. Prior to this, F1 crossbred data has been able to be used – but only linked through pedigree. AWA currently holds data on around 180,000 crossbred genotypes.
The new Wagyu evaluation reflects the AWA’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, which prioritises data security, integrity, technological innovation and industry leading service delivery for members.
Defining moment
“This marks a defining moment for Wagyu globally,” AWA chief executive Dr Matt McDonagh said.
“For the first time, the world’s largest Wagyu dataset will be analysed through a 100pc Wagyu-specific evaluation designed for the AWA using AWA’s complete database,” he said.
This development elevates our ability to drive sustainability, accelerate genetic progress and safeguard the future of the breed alongside our genetic diversity tools and new trait development.”
The new AWA genetic evaluation represents a complete redevelopment of the Association’s genetic pipeline. It incorporates Wagyu-specific genetic parameters, expanded datasets and advanced modelling that solves all Wagyu traits simultaneously through a modern single-step approach.
With more than 300,000 genomic profiles, 400,000 animal records and increasing volumes of trait-specific data, including new measures for feed intake, marbling fineness and fatty acid characteristics, the new WBVs will provide breeders with the highest detail and accuracy ever achieved for Wagyu.
Promoting global genetic excellence
“Our members entrusted us to lead with ambition and clarity,” said AWA president Laird Morgan.
“This project is the result of that commitment. It strengthens our capability to support members, promotes global excellence in Wagyu, and advances the breed using world class science and technologies.”
A major enabler of the WBV transition is Helical, the AWA’s advanced member database and digital platform launched in 2025. The new evaluation pipeline integrates directly into Helical, ensuring members experience a streamlined and intuitive transition.
Helical will deliver faster access to updated breeding values through automated weekly WBV runs; improved visualisation and reporting, allowing deeper insight into breeding decisions; simplified data workflows for pedigree, performance and genomic submissions and a unified user experience, with all genetic tools accessible in one location.
The integration ensures that the move to the new WBVs is not only scientifically advanced but practical, efficient and easy for members to adopt.
Beginning in early 2021, the AWA undertook a full assessment of evaluation, databasing and genomic service providers worldwide. This extensive market review resulted in targeted partnerships and a clear pathway for the development of AWA’s independent system.
Key milestones include:
- 2021: Global EOI process commenced
- 2022: Contracting of leading providers completed
- 2023: Launch of Wagyu Feeder Check
- 2023–2024: Delivery of new selection indexes (BFI, FTI, F1I)
- 2024: Launch of genomic inbreeding and genetic diversity tools
- 2025: Delivery of the Helical member database
- 2025: Completion of AWA’s independent WBV evaluation pipeline
- 2026: Release of full AWA WBVs and member training
This major advancement brings to life several core pillars of the AWA’s Strategic Plan:
- Data Management & Integrity — strengthening data quality, independence, security, reliability and transparency.
- Technology & Innovation — investing in advanced genetic science to maintain Wagyu’s global leadership and breed specific tools for the Wagyu industry.
- Delivery of Services — providing faster and more effective services alongside more accessible and flexible breeding tools for members.
AWA’s ability to now move to weekly production of WBVs will allow rapid updates, faster trait integration and more responsive member service, the association said.
The system also positions the AWA to introduce new traits, such as fatty acid unsaturation and feed intake more efficiently as AWA’s data-capture projects mature.
“This is a critical advancement in the core genetic tools available to Wagyu breeders,” Dr McDonagh said.
“The AWA is now fully equipped to lead with security, independence, accuracy and speed, delivering the tools our breeders need to shape the future of the luxury beef market.”
The AWA’s transition to its own Wagyu Breeding Values represents a major leap forward, strengthening genetic integrity, enhancing member capability and securing the long-term future of the Wagyu breed.
Source: AWA