Goats in Australia

Goats arrived in Australia with the First Fleet in 1788 and spread with settlers throughout the country. The original goats were a varied and hardy herd capable of utilising harsh Australian pastures to produce milk and meat. 

Some of the first herd escaped into the wild and have evolved into the unique Australian rangeland goat. These goats have since contributed to the development of the modern Australian Cashmere and Angora breeds which have been invaluable to many farmers as they diversify their income. More recently these rangeland goats have become the mainstay of a growing goatmeat industry.

From humble beginnings, the Australian goat industry is continuing to grow and evolve to meet increasing global demand for goat meat, dairy products and fibre.