Animal Production Systems (AGRI10049)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2
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This subject is the third of a suite of three first year subjects that are core to the Bachelor of Agriculture. (Agricultural Production Systems 1-3). These subjects introduce students to the major Australian agricultural production systems (plant and animal) and to the social and business principles that underpin them. Using examples that provide a concrete overview of the workings of each production system, students will develop an understanding of the range of drivers of that system- economics and market drivers; sustainability, including resource, financial and environmental sustainability; the structure of agricultural communities and the farming context; environmental and welfare issues; and the policy and political issues that underpin decision making in agricultural production industries.

In this subject, students will explore Australian animal production industries, for both food (eg meat, milk & eggs) and fibre (wool) production in both extensively and intensively managed systems. Production systems discussed will include beef cattle and sheep, dairy cattle, pigs and poultry. Issues considered will include inputs and outputs of the system, on-farm husbandry and management, and the chain of production from on-farm to consumer.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who have satisfactorily completed this subject will:



  • Have a developing understanding of the structure and operation of agricultural production industries of Australia, as well as an understanding of Australia’s role in global food and fibre production
  • Have an understanding of the principal factors that determine location, environmental impact, sustainability, profitability and international trade competitiveness in animal production systems
  • Be able to describe the major extensive animal production systems in Australia: beef cattle and sheep, and dairy cattle
  • Be able to describe the major intensive animal production systems in Australia: pigs and poultry, including free range and conventional farming systems
  • Understand the major inputs and products for each of the major animal production systems
  • Be able to describe productivity benchmarks in the major production animal systems
  • Be able to explain the chain of production from on-farm to consumer
  • Be able to describe the differences and similarities between intensive and extensive production systems, in terms of infrastructure, productivity and impacts on animal health
  • Understand the basic principles of codes of practice and laws governing production animal systems
  • Understand the principles of animal welfare and be able to identify situations where there is a particular welfare concern
  • Describe how animal production systems impact on the environment

Generic skills

A student who satisfactorily completes this subject should be able to:

  • Explain their understanding of agricultural production systems lucidly, both in writing and orally
  • Review and evaluate readings relating to global food issues and agricultural production
  • Participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions, and study groups, and in working as part of a team to complete a group assignment
  • Think independently and analytically, and direct his or her own learning
  • Manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular tutorial classes, tests and the examination

Last updated: 3 November 2022