Australia’s beef industry is riding a historic export wave.
In August alone, chilled and frozen shipments reached 135,570 tonnes the second-highest monthly volume ever, following July’s record 150,000 tonnes. MLA now forecasts 1.5 million tonnes of beef exports in 2025, well above last year’s record of 1.34 million tonnes.
Global supply constraints are creating the perfect environment for Australian beef:
With fewer cattle processed than a decade ago, heavier carcase weights and more grain feeding are boosting total output and profitability.
Growth isn’t limited to one buyer. The US, Japan, Korea, and China are all increasing imports, while smaller markets like Indonesia and Canada are also expanding.
Record demand means stronger prices and more secure markets for quality Australian beef. Producers who maintain herd health, invest in feed efficiency, and stay market-ready can capture premium returns as global buyers compete for supply.
With exports on track to break all-time records, this is the time for Australian cattle producers to position their operations for growth. The world is hungry for Aussie beef, so let’s make the most of it.
Image Source: Beef Central
You might have seen a few heavy stories hitting the media recently. Just this week, some pretty stark data was released at Parliament House showing what we already feel on the ground: rural communities are doing it tough. Between unpredictable weather, overlapping natural disasters, and skyrocketing input costs, the pressure is higher than it’s been in a decade.
North-east NSW is facing a severe surge in cattle ticks and tick fever, and primary producers are bearing the financial and emotional brunt of the crisis. While official DPIRD data reports 285 infestations and 54 deaths this financial year, experienced cattlemen on the ground warn the real toll is well into the hundreds. Across the state, infested properties have more than doubled since late 2023, jumping from 218 to over 580.
If you’ve been watching the feeder markets over the last fortnight, you’ve likely noticed a massive shift in momentum. Feeder grids have surged by 30 to 50c/kg, pushing saleyard indicators to heights we haven't seen since 2022.
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