Virtual fencing now legal in NSW

Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan has welcomed news that the NSW Government will legalise virtual fencing.

06th May 2025

Farmers across New South Wales have welcomed the state government’s decision to legalise virtual fencing for cattle, hailing it as a breakthrough for agricultural innovation and livestock management.
NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty confirmed the approval, following a parliamentary inquiry into the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024.
The inquiry recommended legalising the technology for commercial use, citing benefits such as improved pasture and grazing management, reduced need for physical infrastructure, enhanced labour efficiency, and greater safety during natural disasters.
Virtual fencing uses GPS technology and sensor-equipped collars to guide livestock without the need for traditional physical barriers. The collars emit mild audio cues and small electric pulses to train and guide animal movement within designated zones.
NSW Farmers Animal Welfare Committee Chair Rob McIntosh praised the move, saying it marked a major step forward for farmers in the state.
“Across Australia and the world, virtual fencing is already proving its value,” Mr McIntosh said.
“This technology can save lives by allowing stock to be moved safely during floods or bushfires, without risking human or animal welfare. It also offers enormous potential for cost savings and better land management.”
McIntosh emphasised the urgency of rolling out regulations to support rapid implementation and expressed optimism that the technology could eventually be expanded beyond cattle to other livestock.
“These fences are a game changer. Tools like this unlock productivity gains that help us grow more food locally and sustainably,” he said.
Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan, who has been campaigning for legalisation for over six months, also welcomed the announcement.
“Legalising virtual fencing is a commonsense decision that will bring NSW agriculture in line with global best practice,” Mr Moylan said.
“It improves farm efficiency, supports environmental protection, and enhances animal welfare.”
He added that the pulses used in virtual fencing are far milder than those from traditional electric fencing, offering a more humane approach to stock control.
As farmers prepare to adopt the new technology, there is growing anticipation about the long-term impact it could have on reducing fencing costs, managing noxious weeds, and boosting resilience against climate-related threats.
“This is the kind of smart innovation we need to future-proof our farming industry,” Mr Moylan said.

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Virtual fencing now legal in NSW

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