Last updated on October 24, 2025
Yes. GPS collars are legally permitted for livestock tracking in Australia, provided they comply with animal welfare standards and relevant telecommunications regulations.
Tracking Cattle in the Land Down Under
Australia’s vast landscapes and sprawling cattle stations make livestock tracking a logistical challenge. Enter GPS collars—a modern solution to an age-old problem. These devices, worn around the necks of cattle, sheep, and other farm animals, allow farmers to monitor movement, health, and grazing patterns in real time. But is it legal to use them?
Yes, it is. GPS collars are not only allowed—they’re increasingly embraced as part of Australia’s push toward smart farming. The legal framework supports their use, as long as they meet welfare and technical standards.
Animal Welfare Comes First
The cornerstone of livestock regulation in Australia is the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines, which outline the legal requirements for the treatment of animals. These standards emphasize that any equipment used on livestock must not cause harm or distress. GPS collars, when properly fitted and maintained, are considered safe and acceptable under these guidelines.
The standards use the word “must” to define legal obligations. For example, collars must not restrict breathing, cause injury, or interfere with normal behavior. Farmers are responsible for ensuring that devices are appropriately sized and regularly checked. These rules are enforced at both the national and state levels, with penalties for non-compliance.
Tech Meets Regulation
Beyond welfare, GPS collars fall under the umbrella of telecommunications and electronic devices. The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Regulations and the Australian Meat and Livestock Industry Regulations provide oversight for technologies used in farming. These laws ensure that devices emitting signals or collecting data do so within approved frequency ranges and do not interfere with other systems.
Manufacturers must also comply with safety standards for electronic equipment, including battery safety and durability in harsh environments. Devices used for commercial livestock tracking often undergo testing and certification before entering the market.
Smart Farming in Practice
In recent years, GPS collars have become a staple of precision agriculture in Australia. They help farmers reduce labor costs, improve pasture management, and respond quickly to health issues. Some collars even integrate with software platforms that analyze movement patterns and send alerts if an animal is injured or straying.
Government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, support the adoption of such technologies through grants and pilot programs. These initiatives aim to boost productivity while maintaining high welfare standards.
See more on Australia
Sources
Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines
https://animalwelfarestandards.net.au/welfare-standards-and-guidelines/
2023-12-01
Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Regulations 1995
https://www.legislation.gov.au/F1996B00288/latest
2025-10-01