# Understanding the Preferences of Genetic Tools and Extension Services for the Northern Australia Beef Industry

## TL;DR

Northern Australian beef producers are hesitant to adopt genetic tools due to knowledge gaps and remote conditions, but prefer hands-on learning to improve adoption.

## Contribution

Identifies specific preferences and barriers for adopting genetic tools among northern Australian beef producers.

## Key findings

- Producers value genetic tools for productivity and profit but lack understanding.
- Face-to-face learning in small groups is preferred for tool adoption.
- Geographical and contextual factors hinder the use of genetic tools.

## Abstract

Beef producers in northern Australia are slow to adopt genetic tools that could improve cattle performance. We interviewed 15 people from the beef industry to find out why. Producers see benefits like better productivity and profits, but face challenges such as limited knowledge and the difficulty of collecting data in remote areas. Tools like polled gene testing are popular, while others, like estimated breeding values, are less understood. To help adoption, producers prefer practical, face-to-face learning in small groups led by experienced peers. These insights will guide programs that make genetic tools easier to use and more valuable for producers.

This study aims to understand the motivations, barriers, and preferences of northern Australian beef producers to adopt genetic tools through the views of different stakeholders. Using qualitative research with a single-case study approach, 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data which were then thematically analysed. Motivating factors to adopt genetic tools were the usefulness of genetic information, the productivity gains, and the profit of the beef enterprise. Barriers to adopting genetic tools included individual factors such as the lack of understanding, limited education, and the attitude of producers or contextual factors such as geographical location and size of production systems. This knowledge will support the development of future extension interventions to promote the use of genetic tools. To effectively promote the use of genetic tools in northern Australian beef production, extension programs should consider both the environmental and geographical context as well as the attitudes and beliefs of local beef producers. This study could present limitations related to sample bias. Future research should include more representative samples and mixed-methods approaches, supplemented by analyses of case studies to validate the reported perceptions.