November 26, 2025

Australian cattle sector sees most slaughter volume since 1978, according to industry official

Australia's cattle industry, which continues to set new benchmarks in Q3 2025 alone, is seeing the "highest cattle slaughter since 1978".

That's according to Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) manager for market information, Stephen Bignell, following the release of the latest figures by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on beef, lamb and mutton production.

Bignell highlighted that strong seasonal conditions across northern Australia have underpinned the surge in cattle numbers in 2025.

He said: "From January to September, Australia produced 2.16 million tonnes of beef, a 13% increase on the same period last year."

According to the ABS, cattle slaughter reached 2.48 million head, up 6% on the previous quarter and 10% year-on-year.

Queensland led the charge, recording one of the largest quarters for processing ever, while New South Wales and Victoria also posted strong numbers as beef production hit a quarterly record of 759,270t.

The MLA outlined that carcass weights remained steady at 307 kg, slightly below last year's average but consistent with seasonal trends.

"Cattle numbers are being supported by strong pasture conditions and herd rebuilding, while sheep and lamb turnoff is easing after last year's peak," Bignell added.

- Agriland