Optimistic Projections for Australia’s Cattle and Sheep Industries in 2024
TL;DR: The latest Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) projections offer a robust outlook for the cattle and sheep sectors in 2024, with cattle slaughter and beef production expected to hit significant highs and the sheep industry also set for record-breaking lamb slaughter and production figures. Despite slight decreases in herd and flock sizes, overall production […]
Australian Cattle Market Trends: A Closer Look at Saleyard Throughput Changes
TL;DR: Meat & Livestock Australia’s 2024 industry projections highlight a subtle decrease in the national herd size, with a shift towards more processor-ready cattle sales following a period of rebuild. Variations in cattle sales to processors and feedlots reflect both seasonal patterns and longer-term market adjustments. Queensland’s feedlot sector is absorbing more cattle, indicating a […]
This Week’s Cattle and Sheep Market Trends: A Mixed Bag of Results
TL;DR: The past week in the cattle and sheep markets has seen varied trends, with overall cattle prices improving amid decreased yardings, while the sheep market enjoyed a price uplift, despite mixed results across categories. Feeder steers and heavy steers in the cattle market showed positive price movements, attributed to strong demand and reduced supply. […]
Surge in Optimism Among Victorian Sheep Farmers Reflects Broader Agricultural Confidence
TL;DR: In a significant turn of events, sheep farmers in Victoria are spearheading a national revival in agricultural confidence. This uplift is captured in the latest Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, which shows Victorian farmer confidence soaring to the country’s highest, moving from a net -39 percent to 21 percent. This optimism is largely driven by […]
Victorian Farmers Federation Challenges Proposed Animal Welfare Legislation
TL;DR: The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is voicing its concerns over the Victorian Government’s proposed changes to animal welfare laws, encapsulated in the Animal Care and Protection draft Bill. Currently open for public consultation on the Engage Victoria website, the draft Bill aims to regulate animal welfare practices across the state. To facilitate farmer feedback, […]
Weekly Market Wrap: Trends in Australian Cattle and Sheep Sectors
TL;DR: The Australian cattle and sheep markets have both experienced downturns this week, according to the latest data. In the cattle sector, there has been a significant reduction in yardings, dropping by 20,001 to 67,332 head, which represents a 30% increase from the figures reported in 2023. This week’s yardings have seen a 40% increase […]
Seasonal Trends and Supply Surge Impact Sheep Prices in 2024
TL;DR: The sheep market in 2024 has seen a robust beginning, with heavy lamb prices peaking at 786¢/kg (carcass weight) in early March, marking a significant recovery from the lowest price point in a decade. However, this initial surge is now showing signs of a gradual decline, nearly 20% lower compared to the same period […]
Grain Price Dip Enhances Lot Feeder Margins in Australia
TL;DR: As of 14 March 2024, the Australian lot-feeding industry is witnessing a significant boost in profitability margins, attributed to the recent dip in grain prices. This development comes at a time when the sector is already experiencing consistent growth, supported by robust infrastructure, expanding export markets, and a steady domestic supply chain. The decline […]
Meat Industry to Incorporate Mandatory Video Surveillance Systems in Animal Welfare Certification System
TL;DR: The Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) is committed to upholding high standards of animal welfare in meat processing establishments. Recognising the importance of sound animal welfare practices, AMIC’s National Processor Council has endorsed the integration of Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) into the Australian Livestock Processing Industry Animal Welfare Certification System (AAWCS). This decision reflects […]
Renewables Fast-Track Concerns Victorian Farmers
TL;DR: The Victorian Government’s decision to fast-track renewable energy projects through accelerated planning approvals has sparked significant concern among the farming community. The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has voiced strong opposition to the approach, citing years of inadequate consultation with landholders who stand to be affected by these developments. VFF President Emma Germano expressed frustration […]
