Australian Saleyards See Growth Amid Thriving Livestock Market

Saleyards across Australia are experiencing significant growth, reflecting strong throughput and excellent livestock prices. This trend reaffirms their crucial role as a competitive marketing option for producers.

Positive Market Trends

“Despite seasonal variability, livestock volumes through saleyards remain high, with lambs maintaining excellent prices since early winter, leading to fantastic returns for producers,” said Amy Perfrement, Executive Officer of Saleyards Australia.

Amy Perfrement, Executive Officer of Saleyards Australia.

The Roma saleyards have recorded consistently large yardings of cattle for many weeks. This trend highlights ongoing confidence in saleyards as a vital link in Australia’s livestock supply chain.

Increasing Transactions

According to the 2024–25 National Saleyard Survey by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), over 21 million livestock transactions across sheep and cattle were reported. This marks an increase of 2.9 million compared to the previous financial year.

In New South Wales, cattle saleyard transactions rose by 22 percent, with significant increases at facilities such as Dubbo, Forbes, and Moss Vale.

Commitment to Animal Welfare

In addition to strong market performance, Saleyards Australia is reinforcing its commitment to animal welfare and best practices. Over the past year, a series of animal welfare training courses have been organized across the country, reaching from Emerald in Queensland to Muchea in Western Australia.

More than 100 saleyard staff and stakeholders participated in these courses, including veterinary-led euthanasia training for livestock over the last six months.

“It is encouraging to see strong participation from other stakeholders, including agents and livestock carriers, demonstrating a broader industry commitment to welfare outcomes,” Ms. Perfrement noted.

New resources, including posters, social media tiles, and digital materials, have been developed for Saleyards Australia members to emphasize the importance of good welfare practices at every stage in the livestock supply chain.

Shared Responsibility in Animal Welfare

The principle of shared responsibility extends from producers through livestock carriers, agents, saleyard staff, and processors.

As the livestock sector continues to thrive, Saleyards Australia remains dedicated to ensuring that this success is built on high standards of welfare, professionalism, and community trust.

Source: Saleyards Australia