Livestock & animals

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development supply chain support, research and development and rigorous biosecurity systems underpin the economic success of Western Australia’s livestock industries. In 2011/12, the WA livestock industries contributed 26% of the state’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry production, worth approximately $2 billion at the farm gate.

WA is a world leader in live exports, super fine wool production and dryland sheep and grain systems. Both cattle and sheep systems are focused on export markets to Asia and the Middle East. WA also has innovative, world-class integrated dairy and pork industries meeting local and South East Asian demand for safe, fresh milk and pork. The WA poultry industry is growing strongly as a result of increasing domestic consumption.

Global demand for high-quality, safe animal protein and products produced according to high animal welfare standards will continue to rise in coming years. Increasingly DAFWA will partner with industry -- locally, nationally and internationally -- in transformational business projects to capitalise on this demand.

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Articles

Early weaning of lambs in a poor season

6 March 2014

The feed requirements of a ewe with a lamb at foot are higher than if the ewe and lambs are fed separately. In a difficult season with short feed supplies, it is better to early-wean lambs from the
Hardship Support Grant

6 May 2024

Many agricultural areas in Western Australia are experiencing drought conditions due to unseasonably low rainfall and higher-than-average daytime temperatures since October 2023.
Making tough decisions about failed crops

18 August 2017

In poor growing seasons, crops may not be good enough to harvest. Managers need to make some tough decisions, after assessing feed value for livestock, potential weed seed set, level of herbicide
To hold or sell breeding cattle in the rangelands

5 September 2017

In a dry season where feed, water and finances are limited, removing less productive animals as soon as possible is a good option.
Key points - managing sheep in the poor season

9 July 2017

Managing sheep in a poor season? This page provides some key points to consider, including feed budgets and transporting of ewes and lambs.
Resources, tools and calculators for cattle and grazing management

2 May 2024

These tools, calculators and resources are designed to help producers manage their cattle more effectively and make better management decisions about feed budgeting and grazing.
Southern beef - dry season management

16 April 2024

South West cattle producers and small landholders are being affected by an extended dry season where available annual pasture and feed reserves are being depleted.
Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Program

7 July 2021

The Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Program supports pastoralists to investigate and design long-term solutions for on-station improvements in rangeland condition and livestock profitability in
The Western Australian sheep and wool industries

22 November 2013

This page provides up-to-date information on the production, consumption and trade (domestic and international) of sheep meat and wool in Western Australia.
Animal Welfare Grant Program

30 September 2021

The Western Australian Government is supporting the welfare of companion animals and wildlife through grants for not-for-profit activities that foster and rehome pets, rehabilitate wildlife, and pr