Australia’s livestock producers were amongst the nation’s first exporters, with live animal shipments dating back to 1829.

The opening of large cattle stations in the Northern Territory and Kimberley in the 1880s was driven by the potential of exports to Asian markets.

From its earliest days, the industry intended to deliver well-conditioned livestock to foreign markets. From the early 1800s to today, losses of animals in transit mean reduced profits. The desire to improve conditions of transport and to understand the dynamics of successful shipments has underpinned ongoing industry research and guides investment in new ships and on-board infrastructure.