Building support networks around an emerging technology using a focus on development: The example of automatic milking in Australia

Abstract

Automatic milking systems (AMS) have become a mature technology in some dairy production regions, particularly in Europe. In Australia there has been minimal uptake but in the last three years more than fifteen farms have installed AMS. Farmers investing in AMS face significant challenges in pre-purchase and post-installation decision-making and farming system adaptation, particularly within the context of predominantly grazing-based systems. This paper aims to report initial findings from a project being undertaken to help position the dairy industry for optimal private and public support of AMS farmers. The project uses a development-led approach to determine the needs of farmers, service ..