Saleyards across Australia are generally experiencing significant growth, with strong throughput and excellent livestock prices, reaffirming their role as a trusted and competitive marketing option for producers.
“Despite seasonal variability, livestock volumes through saleyards remain high, with lambs in particular holding excellent prices since early winter and producers are achieving fantastic returns,” Amy Perfrement, Executive Officer of Saleyards Australia said.
Amy Perfrement, Executive Officer of Saleyards Australia.
“Roma saleyards have recorded consistently large yardings of cattle for many weeks and they are not the only saleyard facility reporting this. It highlights the ongoing confidence in saleyards as a vital link in Australia’s livestock supply chain.”
According to the 2024–25 National Saleyard Survey by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), of the facilities that reported throughput numbers, there were over 21 million livestock transactions across sheep and cattle, marking an increase of 2.9 million compared to the previous financial year.
In New South Wales, cattle saleyard transactions rose by 22 percent with notable increases at facilities such as Dubbo, Forbes and Moss Vale.
Alongside strong market performance, Saleyards Australia is strengthening its support for members through initiatives focused on animal welfare and industry best practice.
Throughout the year, Saleyards Australia has run a series of animal welfare training courses specifically for saleyards, covering locations across the country from Emerald in Queensland to Muchea in Western Australia, equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to uphold the highest standards.
More than 100 saleyard staff and stakeholders participated in the courses, which included veterinary led euthanasia of livestock training, over the last six months.
“It has been particularly pleasing to see strong participation from other stakeholders, including agents and livestock carriers, demonstrating the broader industry commitment to welfare outcomes,” Ms Perfrement said.
“In addition, a new suite of shared responsibility resources including posters, social media tiles and digital material has been developed for Saleyards Australia members to use to remind all stakeholders in the livestock supply chain and visitors to facilities of their obligations to deliver good welfare practices for livestock at every stage.”
“Animal welfare is a shared responsibility, and by providing practical tools and training, we are helping our members lead with confidence and consistency.”
The principle of shared responsibility begins with producers and extends right through to livestock carriers, agents, saleyard staff, and processors.
As the livestock sector continues to perform strongly, Saleyards Australia remains focused on ensuring this success is underpinned by encouraging high standards of welfare, professionalism, and community trust.
Source: Saleyards Australia