P.PSH.1480 - NB2: Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation Group 2
A group learning approach can significantly enhance project outcomes. By sharing data, discussing experiences and reflecting on lessons learned and future plans, team members gain valuable insights from one another.
| Project start date: | 30 November 2023 |
| Project end date: | 30 November 2025 |
| Publication date: | 29 October 2025 |
| Project status: | In progress |
| Livestock species: | Grass-fed Cattle |
| Relevant regions: | Northern Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, Northern Territory |
Summary
The Indigenous Northern Breeding Business (NB2) project is a multi-year initiative supporting Indigenous cattle enterprises through training, mentoring and data-driven management. Phase One involved eight enterprises and focused on skill-building and technology development. Phase Two expanded to 12 enterprises managing over three million hectares, emphasising data analysis and exploring opportunities in the carbon economy while maintaining a core focus on cattle production.
Objectives
- show measurable improvements in productivity, sustainability and profitability across 11 Indigenous businesses, using baseline data for comparison, aligned with the broader NB2 goal of increasing beef production per Adult Equivalent
- create pathways for education and employment that support sustained Indigenous participation in the cattle industry.
Key findings
- improvement in herd recording and data management
- engaged board and management in discussions on strategies to ease pressure on natural resources by enhancing reproductive efficiency and lowering total livestock numbers.
Benefits to industry
An independent review of the NB2 pilot program, commissioned by MLA, highlighted specific advantages stemming from Indigenous group involvement. These included strengthening participant capabilities and expanding social and business networks among Indigenous properties, their workers, non-Indigenous enterprises and key industry stakeholders.
MLA action
These results and feedback from participants strongly support a continuation of the Indigenous component of the NB2 project. Feedback from further afield builds a case for expansion of the project more widely throughout Queensland.
Future research
Maintain the current program structure, including:
- residential and training workshops focused on enhancing knowledge and skills in herd, business and land management
- mentoring through property visits and on-site discussions
- support for data collection and analysis covering herd performance, financial metrics, feed budgeting and carrying capacity, with results reviewed during workshops.
More information
| Project manager: | Tony Parker |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | LPM (QLD) Pty Ltd |
