Free range farm demographics and practices in Australia - preliminary data

Abstract

Free range poultry egg and meat production is a rapidly growing sector in Australia. Establishing free range production enterprises that meet retailer and consumer demands remains a challenge for the poultry industry. Furthermore, Australia is characterised by a wide array of climatic and topographic regions, some of which may expose free range birds to conditions that may affect their health status and productivity. In order to evaluate the impact of free range production systems on the needs and challenges of farmers and to identify research priorities, a survey was conducted and distributed via e-mail, flyers, and online platforms. Within three months, 84 farmers responded to the survey, resulting in 56 completed questionnaires and 28 partially completed questionnaires. Of the complete responses, 30 egg farmers (EF) and 26 broiler farmers (BF) each answered 79 questions regarding their farm, range, feed, rearing, production and health status, as well as the environmental impact and their adaption to the free range system.