Australia: Beef producers geared for growth
The survey showed 50% of Australian beef producers intend to expand their operations in 2026. When extrapolated across the national herd, these intentions imply an overall herd increase of approximately 3%.
Producer sentiment has reached an all-time high, rising to 76 points – up sharply from 47 points in 2024 and just 11 points in 2023. This uplift closely mirrors the improvement in cattle prices over the past 12 months, underpinned by strong global demand for Australian beef.
Every state recorded a sentiment improvement. SA, Tasmania and WA posted the largest increases, rising 46, 49 and 53 points respectively, albeit from lower starting points compared with other states.
Notably – despite markedly different seasonal conditions in 2025 – sentiment between northern and southern producers is almost identical, with the north at 79 points and the south at 76 points. This highlights the continued significant influence cattle prices have on producer confidence, often outweighing seasonal variability.
Producers planning to rebuild or expand herds cited expectations of favourable seasonal conditions, strong cattle prices and a desire to grow their businesses as the primary drivers behind increased herd sizes in 2026.
Interestingly, projected herd growth is expected to occur despite indications that fewer bulls will be produced compared with last year. Instead, the main mechanism for herd expansion is the retention of a higher proportion of heifers, rather than increased bull numbers.
For producers intending to reduce herd size, the most common strategy is the sale of older cull cows. Combined with increased heifer retention, this trend is expected to alter herd demographics, resulting in a younger national breeding herd than has historically been the case.
Breed composition remains largely unchanged. Angus cattle continue to dominate the southern breeding herd – accounting for around one-third of all southern breeders – well ahead of Hereford, which sits at approximately 10%. Wagyu cattle remain overwhelmingly concentrated in Queensland where northern producers primarily use the breed to improve fertility outcomes. Brahman, Droughtmaster and Santa Gertrudis continue to underpin northern production systems.
The survey also examined sales channels and branding practices, confirming that saleyards remain the primary outlet for southern cow–calf producers selling weaners, while northern producers continue to favour alternative pathways.
It is important to note that the survey was conducted (in November 2025) before the North Queensland flood events and the announcement of Chinese safeguard measures, meaning future sentiment and intentions may shift as the impact of these developments become clearer.
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