Uneven distribution of cattle grazing at patch to landscape scales contributes to poor overall forage utilisation and land degradation in extensive grazing systems in northern Australia. The large paddocks and sparse water points typical of these enterprises are key factors causing uneven grazing. This paper reports the initial results of a project that tested the effectiveness of installing additional waters or reducing paddock
size to improve grazing distribution in the Victoria River District. A paddock size of 30-40 km2 with two well-spaced water points is recommended for the study region as a compromise between achieving more uniform grazing use and the cost. To further improve grazing distribution, the strategic use of fire and mineral supplements should be adopted. Potential effects of even use on biodiversity must also be considered