A management model that helps increase profit on Western Australian Dairy Farms

A whole farm linear programming model (Western Australia Dairy Farm Model) has been developed which determines management strategies necessary to maximize profit on dairy farms. Profit foregone by not adopting particular strategies can also be assessed. The model describes herd structure options, nutritional requirements of animals, availability of pasture and other feeds, and considers interdependencies between farm activities. The model has application to extension, industry policy analysis and assessment of research priorities. Examples of such applications are discussed. The model can be adapted for other dairying regions.