LARGE beef production volumes at the start of 2026 help cement Australia’s position as a reliable supplier into global markets, analysts say.
New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), analysed by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), shows Australia’s beef industry has begun 2026 with its strongest start on record, underpinned by high throughput, favourable seasonal conditions in northern regions and increased yardings in parts of New South Wales.
Australia produced 730,077 tonnes of beef in the March quarter, up 2% on the December 2025 quarter and 8% higher year-on-year, marking the largest first quarter production on record.
Cattle slaughter reached 2.30 million head, representing a 6% lift on the March 2025 quarter, reinforcing the strong supply pipeline following record production levels last year.
MLA market information manager Stephen Bignell said strong production and consistent throughput were reinforcing Australia’s position as a reliable supplier.
“With export demand remaining firm across key regions, these production levels are ensuring Australia is well placed to capitalise on global protein demand and maintain market share,” Mr Bignell said.
“At the same time, high volumes will continue to test supply chain capacity and put a spotlight on processing efficiency and logistics as the year progresses.”
Mr Bignell said the results highlighted “continued momentum across the cattle sector”.
“The latest ABS data confirms a very strong start to 2026 for the Australian beef industry, with production lifting on both the previous quarter and year-ago levels.
“Favourable seasonal conditions across northern Australia are supporting productivity, while dry conditions in northern New South Wales have contributed to higher yardings and turn-off in that region,” he said.
Meanwhile, the value of cattle transactions reached a record $6 billion for the quarter, highlighting the continued strength in the sector despite shifting market dynamics.
“Record transaction values demonstrate the resilience and underlying demand for Australian cattle, both domestically and internationally,” Mr Bignell said.
“While we are seeing some moderation following the exceptional highs of 2025, the fundamentals of the beef sector remain strong.”
Mr Bignell said the March quarter results positioned the industry strongly for the remainder of 2026.
“We expect production to remain elevated in the near term, supported by herd dynamics and seasonal conditions,” he said.
“Australia continues to play a critical role in global red meat supply, and these results reinforce the industry’s capacity to meet ongoing domestic and export demand.”