Goat Farming in Australia: A Practical Guide

Goat farming offers small-scale farmers a versatile, low-input livestock option suited to Australian conditions. They produce meat, milk, fibre, and provide effective brush control while thriving on marginal land that struggles to support cattle or sheep. Their adaptability, modest space requirements, and feed efficiency make them ideal for self-sufficient farms and lifestyle properties.

This guide covers everything you need to know about starting and managing a goat farming operation in Australia, from selecting breeds to understanding regulations.

Why Choose Goat Farming for Small Farms

Goats bring multiple advantages to small-scale and hobby farm operations.

Feed efficiency

They convert browse, scrub, and weeds into productive output that other animals ignore. Goats thrive on rough vegetation, reducing reliance on purchased feed.

Adaptability to Australian conditions

Goats handle heat, drought, and varied terrain better than many livestock species. They suit regions from tropical Queensland to temperate Victoria.

Small space requirements

Five to ten goats can run productively on land too small for cattle enterprises. This scalability suits lifestyle blocks and smaller properties.

Multiple products

Meat goats provide red meat production. Dairy goats produce milk for household use or commercial sale. Fibre goats yield mohair or cashmere. Breeding stock generates ongoing income.

Brush control

Goats clear blackberry, lantana, and woody weeds that cost thousands in mechanical or chemical control. They maintain firebreaks and prevent regrowth in cleared areas.

Lower infrastructure costs

Compared to cattle make goats accessible to new farmers. Smaller shelters, lighter fencing materials, and modest handling facilities reduce start-up investment.

Common purposes for goat farming include dairy production for milk and cheese, meat production for domestic and export markets, fibre production from mohair or cashmere breeds, brush control on properties managing weed infestations, and breeding stock sales to other farmers.

Best Goat Breeds for Farming in Australia

Choosing the right breed depends on your primary purpose, climate, and management capacity.

Dairy Goat Breeds

Dairy goats excel at milk production for household use or commercial operations.

Saanen

These large white goats produce 3-4 litres daily during peak lactation. Saanens suit cooler climates and require good shade in hot regions. Their calm temperament makes them suitable for hand milking and small-scale operations.

Toggenburg

These brown goats with white markings produce slightly less milk than Saanens but maintain production over longer lactation periods. Toggenburgs adapt well to various Australian climates and handle cold conditions particularly well.

Anglo-Nubian

These distinctive goats with Roman noses and long, drooping ears produce milk with higher butterfat content ideal for cheese making. Production volumes are lower than Saanens (2-3 litres daily) but milk quality suits value-added products. Anglo-Nubians tolerate heat well, making them suitable for northern Australian regions.

Note: Milk production figures are general estimates. Actual yields vary significantly by individual genetics, nutrition, management, and lactation stage.

Australian Melaan

This is a local breed developed from Saanen genetics. These black or brown goats suit Australian conditions and maintain good milk production in warmer climates.

Dairy goats require twice-daily milking during lactation. Plan infrastructure and time commitment accordingly before choosing dairy breeds.

Goat Meat Breeds

Meat goats focus on efficient weight gain and carcass quality.

Boer goats

Boers dominate Australian meat goat production. These white goats with brown heads grow rapidly, reaching market weight at 6-8 months. Boers produce excellent meat yield with minimal inputs. They adapt well to extensive grazing systems and handle Australian conditions effectively. Boer genetics form the foundation of most commercial meat goat operations.

Kalahari Red

These goats offer similar meat production to Boers with enhanced heat tolerance. These solid red goats suit hotter, drier regions particularly well. They show good parasite resistance and handle extensive management systems effectively.

Rangeland goats

These are hardy animals descended from feral populations, now selectively bred for meat production. They require minimal inputs, handle harsh conditions, and suit large-scale extensive operations in semi-arid regions. Rangeland goats produce leaner meat than Boers but excel in environments where other breeds struggle.

Crossbred meat goats combining Boer genetics with other breeds balance growth rates, hardiness, and adaptability for diverse Australian conditions.

Fibre and Dual-Purpose Breeds

Fibre goats produce mohair or cashmere alongside potential meat production.

Angora goats

Produce mohair, a lustrous fibre valued for textiles. These goats require shearing twice yearly and suit cooler climates. Mohair provides income separate from meat production, though Angoras are less hardy than meat breeds.

Cashmere goats

Produce fine undercoat fibre harvested annually. Cashmere commands premium prices but yields are lower than mohair. Cashmere production suits cold-climate regions where goats naturally develop heavy winter coats.

Dual-purpose crossbreeds

Combine meat production with dairy or fibre potential. These goats suit diverse small farms where multiple income streams improve viability.

Setting Up Your Goat Farm

Proper infrastructure prevents escapes, protects stock, and simplifies daily management.

Shelter and Housing for Goats

Goats need protection from weather extremes, though requirements are less intensive than some livestock.

Weather protection

Simple three-sided shelters protect goats from wind, rain, and intense sun. Open-front sheds with solid backs facing prevailing winds provide adequate protection. Elevated floors improve drainage and hygiene.

In northern Australia, shade structures suffice for most of the year. Solid roofing prevents heat stress during summer. In southern regions, enclosed sides protect against cold winter winds.

Space requirements

Confined housing needs 1.5-2 square metres per adult goat. Loafing sheds used for overnight shelter only can accommodate more animals. Adequate space prevents bullying and allows all goats access to shelter simultaneously.

Bedding and hygiene

Deep litter systems using straw or wood shavings work well for confined housing. Remove soiled bedding regularly and provide fresh material. Elevated slatted floors reduce bedding requirements and improve hygiene, particularly for dairy operations.

Separate housing for pregnant does, sick animals, and kids simplifies management. Plan for isolation areas when designing shelter layouts.

Fencing and Containment for Goat Farming

Goats are notorious escape artists. Proper fencing is non-negotiable.

Fence height

Must reach 1.2-1.4 metres minimum. Goats climb, jump, and push through inadequate fencing. Shorter fences guarantee escape problems.

Mesh or wire fencing

Ringlock or hinge-joint mesh with vertical stays at 150mm spacing contains goats effectively. Diamond mesh (chainlink) provides excellent security but costs more. Electric netting offers portable fencing for rotational grazing systems.

Electric fencing

Multiple strands (4-5 wires) at 200-300mm spacing, starting 150mm from the ground, contain goats when properly maintained. Electric fencing alone requires vigilant management including testing and backup systems.

Gates

Goats learn to open simple latches. Use carabiners, snap hooks, or purpose-built goat-proof latches. Ensure gates open inward or slide rather than swinging outward where goats push.

Corners and weak points

Reinforce corners with extra posts. Bury fence mesh 150-200mm underground or extend outward to prevent goats digging under. Check fence lines regularly for damage.

Plan approximately $15-30 per metre for adequate goat fencing, depending on materials and terrain. Budget accordingly – inadequate fencing costs more long-term through recapture time and lost animals.

Note: Fencing costs are estimates only and vary significantly by location, materials, terrain, and installation method. Obtain current quotes for accurate budgeting.

Water and Feeding Systems for Goat Farming

Reliable water access and appropriate feeding infrastructure support goat health and productivity.

Water consumption

Ranges from 4-10 litres per adult goat daily, increasing with lactation, heat, and dry feed. Provide constant access to clean, fresh water. Goats are particular about water quality and reject contaminated sources.

Water systems

For small operations include automatic float troughs connected to mains or tank water. These maintain consistent supply and reduce daily workload. Manual filling of troughs works for very small herds but demands reliable daily attention.

Prevent faecal contamination of water. Raised troughs or rack-mounted automatic waterers keep water clean. Empty and clean troughs weekly minimum.

Feed troughs and hay racks 

Goats refuse feed that touches the ground or contains faeces. Elevated racks keep hay clean. Troughs with anti-waste bars prevent goats throwing feed.

Allow 400-500mm of trough space per goat for supplementary feeding. Dominant animals monopolise limited trough access, causing nutrition problems in submissive stock.

Goat Feeding and Nutrition

Proper nutrition determines goat health, productivity, and profitability.

Browse and roughage

Goats are browsers rather than grazers, preferring leaves, twigs, and bark over grass alone. Access to diverse vegetation provides balanced nutrition naturally.

Pasture alone doesn’t meet goat nutritional requirements. Supplement with tree fodder, browse, and quality hay. Goats need 2-3% of body weight in dry matter daily.

Hay and supplementary feed

Lucerne hay provides excellent nutrition for dairy goats and growing kids. Grass hay suits maintenance feeding for dry does and wethers.

Grain supplements (oats, barley, commercial pellets) support high production demands. Feed grain cautiously – rapid introduction causes digestive upsets. Start with small amounts (100-200g) and increase gradually over 10-14 days.

Mineral supplements

Goats require copper, selenium, cobalt, and other trace minerals often deficient in Australian soils. Provide loose minerals free-choice or use mineral-enriched licks. Ensure mineral supplements are goat-specific – sheep minerals lack adequate copper and cause deficiencies in goats.

What not to feed goats

Includes lawn clippings (fermentation causes bloat), mouldy hay or grain (toxic), and excessive grain (acidosis risk). Avoid sudden diet changes. Many ornamental plants are toxic; research safety before allowing access to gardens.

Rotational grazing

Move goats through paddocks on 3-7 day rotations. Resting paddocks breaks parasite life cycles and allows vegetation recovery.

Note: Stocking rates vary widely by climate, rainfall, pasture type, and management system. The figures below are general guides only – assess your property’s specific carrying capacity with local agricultural advisors.

Seasonal feeding in Australian climates

Summer dry periods need hay supplementation. Winter in southern regions demands increased energy for cold tolerance. Northern wet seasons provide abundant browse but may require mineral supplementation.

Goat Breeding and Kidding Basics

Strategic breeding maximises productivity while managing workload.

Breeding timing 

Breeding in goats is seasonal, with most does cycling in autumn (March-May) as day length decreases. This natural timing results in spring kidding (August-October) when pasture quality improves. Some breeds show less seasonal breeding behaviour, allowing year-round production.

Breed does from 7-8 months of age once they reach 60-70% of mature weight. Undersized breeding causes kidding problems and poor kid survival.

Gestation period 

150 days (approximately five months). Calculate kidding dates when breeding to plan for supervision and shelter.

Buck management

Requires separation from does except during planned breeding periods. One mature buck can serve 30-40 does. Young bucks (8-12 months) should serve 10-15 does maximum. Buck odour intensifies during breeding season – locate buck housing downwind of residential areas.

Kidding preparation

Includes vaccinating does 4-6 weeks before kidding, ensuring doe is in good body condition, and preparing clean, dry birthing areas separate from the main herd.

Most does kid without assistance. Monitor pregnant does closely near due dates. Intervene if labour exceeds 2-3 hours without progress or if kids are malpositioned.

Newborn care

Involves ensuring kids breathe and nurse within the first hour. Colostrum provides essential immunity; kids must consume 10% of body weight in colostrum during the first 24 hours. Dry kids thoroughly and provide warm shelter in cold weather.

Record keeping 

Tracks breeding dates, kidding dates, kid weights, dam and sire identification, and health events. Accurate records guide culling decisions and genetic improvement.

Goat Health, Parasite Control, and Welfare

Proactive health management prevents losses and maintains productivity.

Common diseases

Include internal parasites (barber’s pole worm, brown stomach worm), footrot, lice infestations, Johne’s disease, and cheesy gland (caseous lymphadenitis).

Parasite control

Worms cause more production losses than any other health issue in Australian goats. Implement strategic drenching based on faecal egg counts rather than calendar-based treatments. Rotate drench chemicals to prevent resistance. Maintain rotational grazing to reduce paddock contamination.

Goats show less obvious worm burden symptoms than sheep. Monitor body condition scores, coat quality, and eyelid colour (FAMACHA scoring). Anaemia indicates severe worm burden requiring immediate treatment.

Vaccination schedules

Should include 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 vaccines protecting against clostridial diseases (tetanus, pulpy kidney, black disease). Vaccinate does 4-6 weeks before kidding to transfer immunity to kids. Vaccinate kids at 6-8 weeks and again at 12-14 weeks.

Additional vaccines depend on regional disease risks. Consult local veterinarians about Johne’s disease, cheesy gland, and other area-specific concerns.

Hoof care

Trim hooves every 6-12 weeks depending on terrain and conditions. Goats on soft ground require more frequent trimming than those on rocky areas.

Observation for early detection

Check goats daily. Normal behaviour includes active grazing, rumination, alert demeanour, and social interaction. Isolated animals, reduced appetite, lethargy, or abnormal discharge indicate health problems requiring investigation.

Establish relationships with rural veterinarians experienced with goats before emergencies arise. Goat medicine differs from cattle or sheep – ensure your vet has relevant expertise.

Costs and Economics of Goat Farming

Understanding costs helps set realistic expectations and plan viable operations. All cost figures below are indicative estimates only and vary significantly by location, market conditions, and individual circumstances. Obtain current quotes and pricing for accurate budgeting.

Start-up costs for a small goat operation (10-20 does)

• Stock purchase: $200-600 per breeding doe depending on breed and quality; $300-1,000 for a breeding buck
• Fencing: $3,000-8,000 for 2-5 acres depending on terrain and existing fences
• Shelter: $1,000-5,000 for basic three-sided shed
• Equipment: $500-2,000 for feeders, water systems, and basic handling facilities
• Initial feed and supplies: $500-1,500

Total start-up investment typically ranges from $8,000-20,000 for a small breeding operation. Costs increase substantially for dairy operations requiring milking equipment.

Ongoing annual costs

• Feed and supplements: $80-200 (varies with pasture quality and supplementation needs)
• Health care: $30-60 (drenching, vaccines, hoof care)
• Water and utilities: $10-30
• Repairs and maintenance: $20-50
• NLIS tags and record keeping: $5-15

Budget $150-350 per doe annually for basic running costs. High-producing dairy goats cost more to feed and manage.

Potential income

• Meat kids: $80-180 per kid at 6-8 months depending on weight and market
• Dairy sales: $500-1,500 per doe annually from milk sales (after feed costs)
• Breeding stock: $300-800+ per animal for quality registered stock
• Fibre: $40-120 per goat annually for mohair (highly variable by quality and market)

Small operations with 10-20 breeding does can generate $3,000-8,000 annually after costs. Scaling up improves margins but requires proportional infrastructure investment.

Suitability by scale 

Goats work well for small farms (5-50 does), medium operations (50-200 does), and large extensive systems (200+ does). Small-scale intensive operations suit lifestyle blocks. Large-scale extensive systems suit rangeland properties.

Part-time goat farming is viable for small herds. Full-time management suits larger commercial operations or intensive dairy enterprises.

Regulations and Licensing for Goat Farming

Compliance with regulations is mandatory and protects both your operation and the broader industry.

Local council regulations

Check your property zoning and any restrictions on animal numbers or types. Some councils require permits for commercial livestock operations.

Animal welfare standards

The Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Livestock provide baseline requirements for goat care, handling, and husbandry.

NLIS (National Livestock Identification System) tagging 

All goats must be identified with NLIS-accredited tags before leaving their property of birth. Requirements have been progressively strengthened, with electronic identification (eID) tags becoming mandatory in many states. Check current requirements with your state agriculture department as regulations continue to evolve.

Obtain a Property Identification Code (PIC) before bringing livestock onto your property. Register your PIC with your state’s department of primary industries or equivalent authority.

Movement documentation

Complete National Vendor Declarations (NVDs) and movement records for all stock transfers. Maintain records for seven years minimum.

State-specific requirements:

• NSW: NSW Department of Primary Industries manages livestock identification and biosecurity requirements
• Victoria: Agriculture Victoria oversees NLIS and biosecurity regulations
• Queensland: Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) administers livestock programs
• South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory: Contact respective state departments for local regulations

Biosecurity obligations

Report notifiable diseases immediately to state authorities. Maintain basic biosecurity practices including quarantining new stock, managing visitor access, and controlling feral animals.

Common Mistakes New Goat Farmers Make

Learning from common errors saves time, money, and livestock welfare.

Underestimating fencing needs

Inadequate fencing leads to constant escapes, stressed animals, neighbour disputes, and livestock losses to traffic or predators. Budget for proper fencing from the beginning.

Poor nutrition management

Goats need diverse browse, quality hay, and mineral supplements – grass alone isn’t sufficient.

Overstocking

Start conservatively with stocking rates until you understand your property’s capacity. As a general guide, good improved pasture might support 4-6 goats per hectare, with lower rates for native vegetation or dry areas. Local conditions vary significantly – assess your specific property’s capacity with agricultural advisors.

Neglecting parasite control

Implement strategic parasite management from day one. Conduct regular faecal egg counts and maintain rotational grazing.

Insufficient shelter

While goats don’t need elaborate housing, they require protection from rain, wind, and heat. Provide adequate shelter before bringing stock home.

Inadequate planning for breeding

Separate bucks from does and breed deliberately. Unplanned breeding creates management chaos and reduces productivity.

Ignoring hoof care

Schedule regular hoof trimming and learn proper techniques. Neglected hooves become severely overgrown, causing permanent damage.

Purchasing unsuitable breeds

Match breed selection to your goals – dairy breeds for milk production, meat breeds for kid sales. Don’t assume any goat meets any purpose.

Resources and Further Reading

Numerous resources support Australian goat farmers.

Government resources:

• NSW Department of Primary Industries provides comprehensive goat management guides and technical information
• Agriculture Victoria offers goat farming resources and extension services
• Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland publishes practical goat production information
• Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development maintains goat industry support

Industry organisations:

• Goat Industry Council of Australia (GICA) represents the national goat industry and provides industry information
• Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) delivers research and development for goat meat producers
• Dairy Goat Society of Australia supports dairy goat breeders
• Australian Boer Goat Breeders Association (ABGBA) promotes Boer goat breeding

Parasite and health management:

• ParaBoss provides parasite management information specific to Australian conditions
• WormBoss, FlyBoss, and LiceBoss offer species-specific pest management guidance

Frequently Asked Questions