Victorian cattle producers have been waiting for this one. Virtual fencing has been approved for commercial use in Victoria under the amended Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (POCTA) Regulations 2019, and Gallagher eShepherd is proud to be part of it.

The changes commenced on 10 December 2025, after extensive consultation with industry that included Gallagher Animal Management. They open the gate to a smarter, more flexible, and more sustainable way to run cattle.

What the new rules allow

The updated regulations let approved virtual fencing and herding technologies be used commercially, provided they meet strict animal welfare safeguards. Manufacturers can now apply to Agriculture Victoria for approval.

Gallagher eShepherd expects to be among the first approved products, with approval anticipated 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

What producers need to do

Adopting virtual fencing comes with a clear set of requirements. Producers will need to:

  • use an approved technology
  • complete the manufacturer's training
  • maintain a physical perimeter fence
  • check their collars regularly

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

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.

Dr Trevor Pisciotta, Executive Director, Agriculture Victoria

Proven well beyond Victoria

eShepherd is already leading virtual fencing adoption across Australia, with deployments in Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia since 2023, alongside New Zealand, North America and Europe. Thousands of producers are already seeing the difference in their grazing management and their labour bills.

The productivity gains are showing up in the numbers, too. In Western Australia, Kent Rochester of KM Farms has recorded weight gains of up to 600g/head/day, worth an extra $2.70 per animal per day at current prices.

Flexibility without the fence

For Victorian producers, eShepherd means the freedom to draw digital grazing zones without building or shifting a single physical fence. That makes precise, efficient rotational grazing far easier to run, and far easier to change when the season does.

It is built with animal welfare at its core, so it helps you focus on what matters most: running a productive, resilient farm.

Where to start

Gallagher expects strong interest from Victorian producers, and we are ready to help more farmers get set up. The future of livestock management is here, and it is smarter, more sustainable, and built for the challenges ahead.

Pick the step that suits you: