Grainfed cattle turnoff also reached new highs

Grainfed cattle turnoff also hit a new high, with 894,178 head processed last quarter, which drove record grainfed production and export volumes. More cattle are being placed into longer-fed 200-300 programs, contributing to a significant lift in quarterly grainfed beef output.

National comparisons over five years show the change in the feedlot system. Numbers on feed have lifted 38pc, capacity has lifted 23pc and grainfed cattle turnoff is up 13pc, while grainfed exports are up 42pc.

“The continued expansion in capacity and utilization reflects strong confidence in the sector. As we break new records, Australian grainfed beef continues to find demand in global markets,” said Australian Lot Feeders Association president Grant Garey to Beef Central.

Australia exported 112,935 tons of grainfed beef last quarter, up 25pc on June 2024 volumes, which at the time was a record. Grainfed beef made up 29pc of total exports last quarter, as non-grainfed production remains firm.