• Local producers map out carbon future
• In Short
• Baselines for Better Business: Tailored plans help farmers understand exactly where their emissions come from, covering everything from livestock to fuel use.
• Securing Market Access: The project prepares local producers to meet growing global and supply chain demands for low-carbon produce.
• Practical Mitigation: Farmers receive actionable insights and data-driven recommendations to implement sustainable, carbon-reducing strategies on-property.

Farmers across the Hay, Balranald, Carrathool, and Central Darling regions can take a step toward securing their future market access, as a state-wide push for on-farm carbon management gains momentum.

The NSW Government’s On-Farm Carbon Advice project has now seen more than 120 producers across the state—ranging from extensive livestock to mixed farming systems common in our back country—partner with experts to develop detailed greenhouse gas management plans.

For communities like ours, where agriculture is the lifeblood of the economy, these plans offer a way to baseline emissions and identify practical changes that can be made in the paddock to improve the bottom line. The project aims to build the capacity of farm businesses to manage carbon, focusing on everything from livestock management and cropping to fertiliser use and energy consumption.

Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the project is about navigating the transition to a low-emissions future while ensuring farmers are equipped for evolving standards.

"The project has received positive feedback from farmers, who have highlighted the value of personalised guidance and the practical, actionable insights these plans provide, often leading to more efficient enterprises," Ms Moriarty said.

"Through the creation of these Farm Carbon Management Plans, the project aims to empower farmers with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their on-farm emissions and explore effective mitigation strategies."

The Minister noted that the move is also about the bottom line. "It will help farmers meet the emerging demand, from their supply chains and customers, for low carbon produce, and secure their market access into the future. It will also highlight opportunities for farmers to participate in carbon markets," she said.

For local dairy and livestock producers, the transition is about turning complex data into everyday decisions. Casino dairy farmer Fleur Tonge, who participated in the program, said the process provided much-needed clarity.

"The time and effort working with carbon experts has helped us better understand how we can reduce greenhouse emissions on our properties," Mrs Tonge said. "These reports are presented in an easy-to-understand manner with sound data and recommendations. It is an issue that needed to be addressed, and we feel far more confident of how our farm is performing now".

As global markets increasingly look for "green" credentials, these tailored plans are intended to provide the framework for Back Country producers to remain at the forefront of the industry.