Virtual fencing to be legalised in NSW despite animal welfare concerns
Virtual fences are expected to be legalised in NSW later this year. (Supplied: CSIRO)
In short:
Farmers have welcomed the announcement that virtual fencing will be legalised in NSW.
The practice involves the use of collars that deliver electric shocks in order to control the movement of livestock.
What's next?
The legislation is expected to be passed later this year.
New South Wales is set to become the next state to legalise virtual fences in a move that has been praised by farmers but has concerned animal welfare advocates.
Virtual fencing involves the use of a neckband that sends out electric pulses and noises if an animal leaves a designated area.
The practice has been introduced in Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory in recent years.
NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said the technology would benefit producers.
"It is a big step forward in modernising how we're managing and containing animals on farms," she said.
The bill was tabled by independent Orange MP Phil Donato and resulted in an inquiry being held last year that recommended the practice be legalised.
Wayne Dunford says the introduction of virtual fences will help farmers save money and improve soil management. (ABC News: Lucy Barbour)
Parkes sheep and cattle farmer Wayne Dunford said physical fencing for livestock cost up to $10,000 per kilometre and was a significant financial burden.
"For the first few years it is alright, but then there is maintenance — the western country has a lot of damage from wild pigs, kangaroos and emus," he said.
"Then there is labour — it is very difficult to get contract fencing and those things aren't going to get better with fewer people working on farms."
Flooding in 2022 led to thousands of kilometres' worth of fencing being damaged in NSW. (ABC Central West: Joanna Woodburn)
Animal welfare concerns
During the inquiry animal welfare concerns were raised regarding the use of electric shocks to control livestock.
Andrea Harvey from the Sydney University School of Veterinary Science said the technology had "amazing" potential but the shocks caused "some discomfort" and could lead to animals becoming anxious.
"When boundaries are changed that would always be a risk period where they would have to relearn," she said.
Dr Harvey said there were measures that could be introduced to mitigate welfare issues, such as limiting the strength, duration and number of shocks.
A small solar panel is used to power the devices. (ABC Rural: Georgia Hargreaves)
Ms Moriarty described the electric pulses as "minor" and said protections for livestock would be ensured.
"The advice that I've got is that there won't be a significant issue for animals," she said.
"I wouldn't be allowing this to be rolled out in New South Wales if this was going to cause issues for cattle or any other animals."
Phil Donato and Tara Moriarty made the announcement in Orange on Wednesday. (ABC Central West: Hamish Cole)
Environmental benefits
A 2021 CSIRO study found virtual fencing improved environmental and sustainability outcomes by reducing overgrazing.
Mr Dunford said the practice allowed farmers to "better manage the grass or feed" because stock could be herded more easily.
"You can move [the virtual fences] or manage that paddock however you wish," he said.
The CSIRO has found virtual fences can improve pasture management. (ABC News: Kate Forrester)
Mr Donato has travelled to other states where the technology has been legalised and says the environmental benefits are clear.
"Where there may be creeks or eroded areas where you don't want your stock … it is quick and simple to create a virtual fence," he said.
The state government will hold a consultation process and Ms Moriarty says she expects the legislation to be passed later this year.