Meat and livestock play an important role in Australia’s food supply chain, economy and regional communities.

As the Australian Government’s lead agency for agriculture, we work with industry, governments, researchers and other partners to support the sector.

Our policies, programs and initiatives support the agricultural supply chain, including productivity, sustainability, animal health and welfare, trade and emergency response.

Explore our work across these key areas and find out what  support is available.

2026 International Summit

We are providing financial support for the 2026 International Summit on the Societal Role of Meat and Livestock.

The Summit will:

  • examine international research, evidence and perspectives on the future of meat and livestock production
  • explore the latest evidence on health and nutrition, the environment and the societal role of animal agriculture
  • provide a Southern Hemisphere perspective, including food and nutrition challenges affecting the Global South and Australia’s Asian and Pacific neighbours.

This supports our priority to help Australia’s meat and livestock industries remain productive, sustainable, trusted and globally competitive.

Cattle in outback Australia Northern Territory drone shot
Female farmer working with cattle on a farm

Animal health

Australia’s animal health system helps prevent, detect and respond to animal diseases. It relies on collaboration between government agencies, industry, researchers and individuals who are involved in livestock production.

We lead Australia’s international animal health activities within our responsibilities including disease reporting and arrangements that support the export of livestock and animal products.

See our animal health policies 

Emergency preparedness and outbreak response 

Animal welfare

Animal welfare is an important part of responsible livestock production. Consistent standards and strong collaboration help support good animal welfare practices across Australia.

We work with states and territories to develop and implement nationally consistent farm animal welfare standards and guidelines.

A renewed Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS) is also underway. It will provide a national framework for collaboration on animal welfare issues of national significance.

See animal welfare standards and initiatives in Australia

Free range pigs on a farm
Cows grazing on a dairy farm at sunset time after the rain

Climate and agriculture

Climate change is affecting Australia’s agricultural sector, with changing rainfall patterns, temperatures and extreme weather events creating challenges for producers.

These changes can affect productivity, water availability, soil health and the spread of pests, weeds and diseases.

Our programs and initiatives support farmers and regional communities to build resilience, prepare for climate-related risks and adapt to changing conditions.

Climate change and the agricultural sector

Climate-Smart Agriculture Program

Future Drought Fund

Exporting from Australia

Australian meat and livestock are part of a globally connected supply chain. Access to international markets creates opportunities for producers and exporters, supporting jobs and regional economies.

We work with industry and trading partners on market access, export requirements and certification to support trade in Australian agricultural products.

See more on exporting from Australia

Aerial view of corals with Angus cattle for export
Farmers in a field with an with ipad

Science and research

Science and research help Australia’s meat, livestock and aquaculture industries improve productivity, manage environmental impacts and respond to emerging challenges.

We work with research organisations, industry and government partners to support agricultural research and innovation.

We fund 15 research and development corporations (RDCs) which play an important role in Australia’s agricultural research and innovation system.

Through ABARES, we provide economic analysis, forecasts and research to help inform decisions across Australian agriculture.

Research and development corporations

ABARES agricultural research and data

See more

Reducing agricultural and land sector emissions

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Research Program for Productive & Sustainable Livestock Systems

Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research

Austrade

Australian Trade and Investment Commission