Context: Australia is renowned for its climate variation featuring years with drought and years with
floods, which result in significant production and profit variability. Accordingly, to maximise
profitability, dryland farming systems need to be dynamically managed in response to unfolding
weather conditions.
Aim: The aim of this study is to identify and quantify optimal tactical livestock management for
different weather-years.
Method: This study employs a whole farm optimisation model to analyse a representative mixed
enterprise farm located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. Using this model, we
investigate the economic significance of five key livestock management tactics. These include, timing
of sheep sales, pasture area adjustments, rotational grazing, crop grazing and sheep nutrition
adjustments.
Key results: The results show that, on the modelled dryland mixed enterprise farm in the Great
Southern region of Western Australia, short-term adjustments to the overall farm strategy in
response to unfolding weather condition increase expected profit by approximately 16%. Each tactic
boosted profit by between $7,704 and $53,171. We outline, however, several complexities that
farmers must consider when implementing tactics.
Conclusions: The financial gains from short-term tactical management highlight their importance
and farmers’ need to develop and apply those skills. The tactical skills promote business resilience
and adaptability in the face of climate uncertainties.
Implications: The study highlights the economic value of dynamic livestock management in response
to climate variations, offering farmers in the Great Southern region the means to underpin profitable
and sustainable farm practices.
