Become a STA FM Member

Office Hours

Mon – Tue | 9AM – 12PM
Wed – Fri | 9AM – 2:30PM

Phone:

(02) 5619 2439

Email:

admin@stafm.com.au

[radio_player id="1"]

Confinement Feeding an Option for Drought Affected Livestock Producers

by | Mar 25, 2026 | Agriculture, Media Release

With much of NSW drought affected, Local Land Services is reminding livestock producers who have limited feed availability that confinement feeding may be a worthwhile management option for them.
Confinement feeding is a temporary, proactive management strategy where stock are confined in either small paddocks or pens for full hand feeding and management when producers are drought affected.

The benefits of confinement feeding include helping to maintain livestock production during periods of limited feed availability and helping to reduce grazing pressure and maintain groundcover across other parts of the property.  

Like all systems, confinement feeding can pose risks. Producers need to consider the cost and quantities of feed that will be required for full hand feeding and infrastructure requirements and costs, such as fencing, troughing, feeding, and water.

Prior to introducing confinement feeding, producers are encouraged to speak with a NSW Government Local Land Services Agriculture Advisor or District Veterinarian for further information and advice on confinement feeding via 1300 795 299.  

There are also some great resources available online for producers, including:   Confinement feeding sheep and cattle   A guide to confinement feeding sheep and cattle in NSW  The NSW Government has expanded its Drought Ready and Resilient Fund (DRRF) for eligible primary producers, doubling the low interest loan cap to $500,000, enabling them to undertake larger, sustainability focused drought resilience projects while also covering operational costs such as feed and transport.

A new small Drought Relief Loan of up to $100,000 has also been established to help provide farmers with immediate, low-cost finance to help manage the impacts of drought. With an upfront payment option, reduced documentation requirements, and no property as security on the loan requirement – farmers can get funds faster, easier and cheaper.

Visit the Drought Ready and Resilient Fund Loan webpage for more information.

Media Release: NSW Local Land Service

Other News