Angus Genetics influence over half of Australia’s female herd: A 5-Year update
An independent quantitative survey of Australian beef producers has identified that Angus genetics influence more than half of the female herd and bulls used.
As part of the “Enhancing Technology Adoption Across the Angus Genetic Improvement Pipeline” project, funded by the MLA Donor Company (MDC), Angus Australia has conducted two surveys of Australian beef producers. The initial survey in 2019 established baseline data from 1,023 producers, while a follow-up survey in 2023 with 977 participants provided updated results. The aim of the surveys was to assess changes in producer knowledge, attitudes towards genetic technologies, and the prevalence of Angus cattle over time.
Penetration of Angus genetics in the Australian beef cattle herd was gauged in two ways; the percentage of the herd influenced by Angus genetics and the percentage of animals composed of Angus genetics.
FEMALES
The 2024 results identified that 53% of the national female herd was reported to be influenced by Angus genetics. This represents a 5% increase from the 2019 survey results. On a genetic composition level, 49% of the national female herd was composed of Angus genetics, an increase of 16% over the last 5 years. Victoria and Tasmania represented the highest percentages of female Angus penetrance, whilst Queensland and Western Australia had the lowest.
BULLS
Angus bulls remain the preferred choice among Australian beef producers, with 59% of bulls selected being predominantly pure Angus. Key factors influencing this choice include market demand, temperament, environmental suitability, premiums paid, and family or business tradition. While these factors were consistent across most states, producers in Queensland placed a greater emphasis on environmental suitability, temperament, and tick resistance.
Nationally, Angus bulls make up 71% of the total bull population, showing a significant 25% increase in influence since the 2019 survey. Victoria and Tasmania have the highest levels of Angus bull influence, whereas Queensland and Western Australia have the lowest. The survey also revealed that 52% of bulls in use across the country at the time were composed of Angus genetics.
ADOPTION BARRIERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Queensland reported the lowest percentage (44%) of producers using Angus or Angus-influenced genetics, with most other states ranging between 65% and 75%. Producers who have not explored the use of Angus genetics indicated that economic value and improved temperament are key factors that could encourage further adoption.
The main reasons cited for not increasing the use of Angus genetics were personal preference (21%) and concerns about temperament (9%). Queensland differed, with environmental suitability being the primary concern.
The findings from the 2024 Beef Breeding Insights Survey will be used to determine the strategic planning of Angus Australia. For those interested in a deeper dive into the data and findings, the full and summary reports are available below.
Angus Australia Beef Breeding Insights Full Report & Summary
CLICK HERE
