Disclaimer and Limitations
The information in this application is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of production (June 2025) and may not be accurate, current or complete.
myStockPlanner provides general information only. You should not make decisions based solely on this information. Users are encouraged to utilise a wider variety of information and seek professional advice in relation to your circumstances, including when making risk management, agronomic and financial decisions for your property or business.
The myStockPlanner application is provided ‘as-is’, without any representations or warranties regarding its functionality, performance, or fitness for any particular purpose. The State of New South Wales (including Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) disclaims all responsibility for any errors or defects. By using this application, you accept all responsibility and risks for its use. The State of New South Wales (including Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) takes no responsibility, and will accept no liability, for the accuracy, currency, reliability or correctness of any information included in the application (including material provided by third parties).
Some factors relevant to the decision maker are not captured in this application. These include farming family and business-related factors such as lack of available labour to consider feeding, an aversion to selling “years of improved genetics” or health issues. Farmers will need to consider these ‘outside’ factors unique to their family and business situations when evaluating the recommendations from myStockPlanner.
Developing supplementary feed rations is complex as it incorporates a range of pasture and livestock variables. It is difficult to account for all variables.
Although funding for this product has been provided by both Australian and NSW Governments, the material contained herein does not necessarily represent the views of either Government.
The following feed and livestock warnings must be considered when using myStockPlanner:
WARNINGS
- Always monitor pasture and livestock performance and ensure livestock feed requirements are met.
Livestock nutritional needs vary according to weather conditions and animal health status. Feed intake also varies according to palatability, accessibility and competition between animals. Pasture can change rapidly in both quantity and quality. Users of the tool should use the outputs carefully, in conjunction with livestock monitoring and pasture observation to fine-tune assessments and make adjustments where necessary. Owners and people responsible for animals are reminded of the relevant state legislation governing the protection of animal welfare. - Follow warnings.
Some feed and livestock feeding selections display warnings on the screen. These warnings are a general guide and do not cover all potential hazards or circumstances. Feeds without warnings may also contain hazards or be unsuitable for a particular use. - Weigh a representative sample of animals in each mob or herd.
Calculated feed requirements are based on animal liveweight. Accurate weights help prevent over or underfeeding. - Account for feed wastage.
The amount of wastage varies greatly between feed methods. Monitor and adjust feeding rates accordingly. - Test feeds to ensure accurate feed values.
There are large variations within each feed type, especially in hays, silages and some grains. A feed test is recommended to ensure an accurate feed ration is calculated. Manufactured feeds such as pellets are made to specification and their nutrient value will be listed on the label. NSW DPIRD provides feed testing through the Feed Quality Service, AgEnviro Labs: contact 1800 675 623, option 2 or wagga.labs@dpi.nsw.gov.au - Ensure feeds do not contain chemical residues.
Ensure all home grown feeds are free from chemical residues by adhering to label instructions when applying chemical. For all purchased feed, obtain a commodity vendor declaration. Undertake residue testing if there is any doubt about chemical residues in feed. - To reduce the risk of digestive upset, introduce new feeds (including grazing crops and grains) gradually over a two-week period.
For further information on feeding grain, livestock nutrition and general animal health visit the NSW DPI website (www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture)