Expanding flock

Australia’s sheep flock is set to reach its largest size in more than 15 years at 78.75 million head.

Meat and Livestock Australia, MLA, forecasts record lamb production that will eclipse 2016 and 2022 totals.

The increase is attributable to optimal breeding conditions nationwide, a genetically superior flock, improved lambing percentages and medium-term industry confidence at a farm gate level.

MLA market information analyst Ripley Atkinson said the growth of the national flock in 2023 would lead to increased slaughter numbers and production.

“Lamb slaughter is forecast to reach 22.6 million in 2023 as a result of large numbers of breeding ewes and strong marking rates. This is a rise of 595,000 head, or 2.7 percent, year-on-year,” he said.

“Last year’s slaughter performance showed that small stock processors had a greater ability to increase their throughput in line with higher supply, a trend MLA expects will continue.

“Looking further ahead to 2024, we forecast it to be a record year for lamb slaughter, reaching 23.2 million head. This would be a rise of three percent, or 560,000 year-on-year and higher by 1.1 million head, or five percent, on the 10-year average.”

Key sheep producing states, New South Wales and Victoria, are forecast to lift numbers, although not as significantly as other states.

In 2024 the national flock’s growth is projected to moderate and plateau, reaching 79.5 million head, a rise of one percent, or 750,000 head year-on-year.

In 2025, the national flock is estimated to fall to 2023 levels, although it will remain above the 10-year average.