Research & Insights

Nitrogen (N) is one of the biggest drivers of grain yield and farm profit — but it’s also one of the hardest to get right. Apply too little and yield suffers. Apply too much and the cost in dry years can hurt. Nitrogen Strategy Recent modelling from the Central Great Southern shows that if a […]

While mature ewe nutrition targets are well established, producers have had less guidance for maidens. A new analysis using the Australian Farm Optimiser (AFO) has shed light on this challenge, using updated reproduction equations based on real-world data from maiden ewes across multiple sites. The findings show that maiden reproduction responds differently to nutrition than […]

Confinement feeding — hand-feeding livestock in a small, contained area — is becoming a valuable tool for mixed farmers in the WA Wheatbelt. By resting pastures while stock are held in confinement, farmers can grow more feed, save labour, and reduce erosion risk. A recent economic analysis with Facey Group case study farms shows that […]

After the tough 2023–24 seasons, we used whole-farm optimisation models to test responses to feed shortages and low livestock prices. The findings show flexibility is key, with tactics like sales timing, feeding strategies and selective destocking helping protect profits.

The potential phase-out of Australia’s live sheep export market has raised big questions for Merino producers, especially those who have relied on wethers sold into the trade. Our analysis used the Australian Farm Optimisation Model (AFO) to understand the on-farm impacts of losing this market and to identify the most profitable alternatives. Why Live Export […]

This study shows how tactical livestock management, like crop grazing and adjusted sheep sales, can lift farm profits by up to 16% in variable weather years. The findings highlight the value of flexible decision-making to improve resilience.

In mixed farming systems, one of the biggest challenges is the winter feed gap. One tool that offers this flexibility is dual-purpose cropping. Crops can be grazed in winter to provide high-quality feed, then harvested for grain at the end of the season. In tough years, grazing can be extended — with reduced inputs — […]

Analysis of grain data shows that in many years, 50–90% of wheat in the Facey catchment is downgraded from APW1 due to low protein. Protein is mostly driven by nitrogen availability and seasonal conditions. High yields from good rains often dilute protein, while poor finishes can lift it. Applying nitrogen late (booting stage) is one […]

Western Australian agriculture has always been shaped by climate. In recent decades, however, rainfall has declined, droughts are more frequent. If the trend continues farmers across the Great Southern and Eastern Wheatbelt will likely need to adapt. In this report we outline how a drier future will influence farm profitability, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and […]

This report addresses critical drought decisions, including feeding strategies, ewe management, and confinement feeding. It provides scenario-based economic insights to guide flock survival and productivity in poor seasons.

Drawing on modelling outcomes and practitioner experience, this article outlines when to use different mathematical programming frameworks. It provides practical guidance on matching the modelling method to project goals.

Focused on an extra 100 kg/ha of pasture growth, this article evaluates the economic benefits across the Great Southern and Central Wheatbelt. It unpacks the key factors driving the value of feed in mixed systems.