Rural & Agriculture
5 July, 2026
Backing livestock farmers with better data
MORE livestock farmers will have access to tools that will help grow more feed, improve productivity and manage costs under a new partnership. Sheep and beef farmers can participate in the program through local workshops, producer networks and on farm trials, helping them use farm data to make informed decisions.
Agriculture Minister Michaela Settle recently announced the new $6 million partnership between Agriculture Victoria and Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).
Farmers will have better access to trusted advisors who understand local conditions, can offer clear, practical guidance and help reach farmers who may not currently participate in industry programs.
Farmers will also test new practices through on farm trials and access leading research and global innovation in ways they can apply directly to their businesses.
The new program will help farmers better use existing data such as livestock weight, reproduction results and pasture information with tools like electronic identification to make better decisions and improve productivity.
More on-farm data means more opportunities to improve efficiency, manage costs and plan for the future.
Beef and sheep meat are among Victoria’s most valuable agricultural commodities, worth $2.9 billion and $2.0 billion respectively, while wool contributes around $874 million.
“Stronger sheep and beef businesses mean stronger regional communities, and this investment is giving farmers practical tools to improve productivity, strengthen resilience and build long-term profitability,” Minister Settle said.
MLA General Manager for Research, Development and Adoption Sarah Strachan said the program is focused on outcomes producers can see in their own businesses.
“By helping producers better use data from paddock to processor, we can improve productivity, reduce risk and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of the Victorian red meat industry,” she said.