Livestock SA is calling on the South Australian Government to urgently reform outdated regulations that continue to block livestock producers from using virtual fencing, as New South Wales becomes the latest state to legalise the technology.
Virtual fencing being trialled in a paddock. Image: Agersens.
The group says the move from NSW puts South Australia behind another jurisdiction, where Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia have already opened the door to the proven technology.
Livestock SA Chair Gillian Fennell said virtual fencing has been trialled successfully across Australia for nearly two decades and has strong support from producers in South Australia.
“South Australian producers are forward-thinking and ready to adopt new technologies that improve productivity, support environmental management, and maintain high standards of animal welfare,” Ms Fennell said.
“Virtual fencing has been shown to reduce fencing costs, improve land and stock management, and support animal safety in emergencies like bushfires and floods. It is time South Australia gave producers access to this tool.”
“In Livestock SA’s annual producer survey, support for virtual fencing has grown significantly. In 2024, 85 per cent of respondents said they support its use, up from 44 per cent in 2023.”
“The message from producers is clear. They want the option to use this technology, and they want it now.”
“Through the Animal Welfare Act review last year we received assurances from the State Government that the regulations would be amended to enable the technology to be used in our state.”
“Other states are getting on with it. We need to stop dragging our feet and give South Australian producers access to a technology that is already transforming livestock management across the country,” Ms Fennell said.
Virtual fencing allows for more targeted grazing strategies, helps exclude stock from environmentally sensitive areas, and enables safer and more efficient management of livestock in extensive systems. It also supports animal welfare outcomes by reducing the need for physical mustering and handling.
Despite these benefits, virtual fencing remains prohibited in South Australia due to outdated regulatory definitions. Livestock SA has repeatedly called for changes to the Animal Welfare Regulations 2012 to allow commercial use of electronic collars for cattle, sheep and goats.
Source: Livestock SA. Read latest submission on the issue: livestocksa.com.au/assets/lsa/
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