Australian beef producers signal confidence and stability amid shifting conditions

The latest Beef Producer Intentions Survey (BPIS) released by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has shown that producers are confident in the sector’s outlook. It has also signaled producers are maintaining stable herd management strategies despite regional, national and global challenges.

The April edition of the 2025 survey, of 3,116 grassfed beef producers across Australia, provides a comprehensive snapshot of herd demographics, producer sentiment, breeding and sales intentions, and market dynamics.

Producer sentiment nationally has strengthened with a net sentiment score of +53, up from +47 in November 2024.

When producers were surveyed about herd intentions, 26% of producers plan to increase their herd size over the next 12 months, while 56% intend to maintain current levels. Only 19% expect to reduce herd size.

According to MLA’s Market Information Manager, Stephen Bignell, these figures are consistent with the previous survey and reflect a stable outlook across both Northern and Southern production systems.

Global market dynamics also played a role in shaping producer sentiment. Increased demand from China, ongoing herd rebuilding in the United States, and evolving tariff arrangements contributed to both optimism and uncertainty.

Producers cited improving prices, stronger seasonal conditions, and better market access as key reasons for a more positive outlook. However, many were concerned about geopolitical instability, rising input costs, and regulatory pressures. Sales activity remains robust, with producers reporting a total of 4.82 million head sold or expected to be sold in the first half of 2025.