Australia: Strong lot feeder purchasing signals sector resilience
Restockers and lot feeders are often competing for suitable young cattle. When prices are favourable, restockers tend to step in when lot feeders’ buying eases. This reflects producers’ optimism and intention to rebuild herds. This was evident earlier this year when seasonal conditions were more favourable.
In 2024, lot feeder purchases surged sharply, rising 72% from 32,614 head in January to 56,050 head in February. This significant increase has continued in 2025, with total throughput remaining elevated compared to the previous three-year monthly average of 30,940 head.
The sustained demand from feedlots suggests pens are filling across key regions, particularly in Queensland and NSW. In the last quarter, as of the June 2025 MLA lot feeding brief, feedlot capacity lifted 4.3% to 957,648 head in Queensland. Utilisation reached 95% in NSW and 93% in Queensland.
With feedlots’ limited space and decent cattle numbers available in northern NSW and Queensland, processors and feeders are booked until Christmas. Additionally, with buyers being more selective, the market has seen price adjustments.
Looking ahead, market movements will largely depend on rainfall over the coming months. If seasonal conditions improve in northern NSW, producers will likely hold cattle until after Christmas when processors and feedlots have more space.
This was stated by its Director General, Alberto Herranz, at the Chinese Embassy during his parti...
The decline, documented during the first quarter of 2026, highlights the profound impact of the n...
The production of food products, which currently takes place at the factory in Aalborg on Ø...
