This thesis examines the hypothesis that, in southern New South Wales and northeast Victoria, Australia, palatable taxa of E. curvula offer advantages that complement those of the species that are traditionally sown in temperate pastures in a landscape context.This hypothesis was based on a review of literature showing that, prior to European settlement, the vegetation, the landscape and the climate were broadly in balance, and the wateruse pattern of the vegetation of southeastern Australia resulted in water being used more-or-less completely by the end of summer. This maximised the capacity of the soil to take up and store water during autumn and winter.Three grazing experiments and one spaced-plant species evaluation study were used to assess the role of summer-growing, C4 Eragrostis curvula in pastures in the temperate zone of southeastern Australia.Issues relating to pasture production and the productivity of wool-growing sheep were investigated. Factors affecting the sustainability of the pastures and their potential on and off site impacts were emphasised.Modelling was used to explore issues of water use, arising from the grazing experiments. It is concluded that the persistence, production, water use patterns, and the adaptability of palatable varieties of E. curvula make it a useful and complementary addition to the range of species that are currently available for use as sown pastures in southern Australia. / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)