Victoria Opens the Gate to Virtual Fencing

A major breakthrough for Victorian cattle producers is here, and Gallagher eShepherd is thrilled to be part of it. Virtual fencing technology has officially been approved for commercial use under the amended Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (POCTA) Regulations 2019, opening the gate to smarter, more sustainable farming.

The changes, which commenced on 10 December 2025, follow extensive consultation with industry, including Gallagher Animal Management.The updated regulations allow approved virtual fencing and herding technologies to be used commercially, provided they meet strict animal welfare safeguards. Manufacturers can now apply to Agriculture Victoria for approval, and Gallagher eShepherd anticipates being among the first approved products in early February 2026.

“This is a game-changer for Victorian cattle producers.eShepherd technology was originally developed in Victoria through in-depth animal behaviour studies by CSIRO so it feels a bit like a homecoming.” 
— Sarah Adams, Gallagher General Manager for Strategy and New Ventures

Farmers adopting virtual fencing will need to comply with clear requirements, including using approved technologies, completing manufacturer training, maintaining a physical perimeter fence, and regularly checking collars.

Gallagher has worked closely with Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) throughout the consultation process to ensure the framework supports safe, effective technology adoption across Victorian farming systems.

Dr Trevor Pisciotta, Agriculture Victoria Executive Director said:

“We know that Victorian cattle farmers have been eagerly anticipating these regulations, and we’re glad they can now harness this cutting-edge technology. These new regulations come with safeguards and clear requirements, providing farmers with smarter tools to manage livestock with precision, boost productivity, and keep animal welfare a top priority.”

Gallagher eShepherd is already leading virtual fencing adoption across Australia, with successful deployments in Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia since 2023, alongside markets in New Zealand, North America, and Europe. Thousands of producers are already seeing benefits in grazing management and reduced labour, with measurable productivity gains—for example, Kent Rochester of KM Farms in Western Australia has recorded weight increases of up to 600g/head/day, worth an additional $2.70 per animal per day at current prices.

For Victorian cattle farmers, eShepherd will offer unprecedented flexibility by enabling digital grazing zones without physical fences, supporting more precise and efficient rotational grazing. Designed with animal welfare at its core, the technology helps farmers focus on what matters most: running a productive, resilient farm.

Gallagher expects strong interest from Victorian producers and looks forward to helping more farmers unlock the potential of virtual fencing. The future of livestock management is here- and it’s smarter, more sustainable, and built for the challenges ahead.

Farmers interested in learning more about virtual fencing or registering their interest in eShepherd can visit www.eShepherd.com