East Gippsland Shire Council has confirmed the East Gippsland Livestock Exchange will continue operating under its current Council-managed model following a comprehensive independent review that found the existing model remains the best option for the region's premier saleyard.

Councillors noted the final Commercial Review report at the 21 July Council Meeting, marking the conclusion of a process that began in March 2024 to examine the long-term operation, performance and financial sustainability of the facility.

The review found the existing Council-managed model continues to provide the strongest foundation for the Livestock Exchange, which plays a critical role in supporting East Gippsland's livestock industry and farming communities.

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the review confirmed Council was well placed to continue operating one of regional Victoria's most important livestock selling centres.

"This review was about making sure the Livestock Exchange keeps meeting the needs of our farming community, now and into the future. What we heard was clear – people value a facility that is locally owned, reliable and accountable, and that's exactly what the current model delivers.”

Independent consultants assessed five potential operating models, ranging from continuing current Council operations through to external management agreements, a hybrid Council-contractor model, leasing the facility, or establishing a solely Council-owned subsidiary. The review also included extensive engagement with livestock agents, buyers, sellers and the wider farming community to understand industry priorities and test the findings.

That engagement revealed strong support for keeping the facility locally owned and accountable, while maintaining a stable and reliable operating model that can respond to changes in the livestock industry, including evolving sales methods and market conditions. Although alternative models were explored, the review found they would introduce greater cost and complexity while delivering little additional benefit in the current operating environment.

The review did identify opportunities to strengthen the existing model through practical operational improvements, improved systems and processes, and the development of a long-term business plan to guide future investment and asset planning.

"Our focus now is on practical improvements that build on what's already working well, so the Livestock Exchange continues to serve producers and the broader livestock industry for many years to come," Cr Ashworth said.

Bairnsdale Stock Agents Association (BSSA) representative Brad Obst welcomed the outcome.

"The Livestock Exchange is a vital piece of infrastructure for farmers right across the region, and it was important that this review took the time to properly test what was working and what wasn't,” Mr Obst said.

"We're pleased Council has listened to the industry and is backing continued local management. The BSAA looks forward to working with Council on further improvements and efficiencies going forward at the Livestock Exchange.”

The review did not consider selling or closing the Livestock Exchange.

More information, including the final Commercial Review report and supporting documents released throughout the process, is available on Council's YourSay East Gippsland website.

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