Virtual fencing is a system that enables livestock of varying types to be confined or moved without using fixed fences, instead relying on collars, sensors and wireless technologies. The CSIRO started research and development (R&D) into virtual fencing in 2005.

Animals are given an audio warning if they approach the perimeter and feel an electric pulse if they continue – one far lower than contacting an electric fence.

Research has been undertaken to determine whether cattle could learn to respond to the warnings, and also examined how loud the audio and how strong to make the electric pulses needed to be, to minimise the animals’ stress.

For sheep producers, the technology is still developing, involving ear tags rather than collars, because wool gets in the way of the electric pulse.

Virtual fencing technology is being used successfully in Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Tasmania, but current animal welfare legislation in NSW means it continues to be banned across the state.

At their recent annual conference, NSW Farmers lobbied to change this.

NSW Farmers Animal Welfare Committee chair Robert McIntosh said virtual fencing had a significant range of benefits which farmers could access if the technology was legalised for use in NSW.

“The science and technology behind virtual fencing indicates this tool has significant benefits for animal welfare, while also delivering better economic returns for farmers through grazing efficiencies,” Mr McIntosh said.

“In the event of floods, fires and other natural disasters, this technology could well be used to help move livestock to safe areas, without putting humans or animals at risk.

“Reduced fencing costs and enabling noxious weeds to be fenced off and controlled are just two of other benefits of virtual fencing which we could see farmers able to take advantage of if the technology was legalised in NSW.

“In reality, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what’s possible with this tool – we just need to be able to use it.”

This article appeared in  The Riverine Grazier, 7 August 2024.