Lamb
1 June, 2026
Sheep and lamb production ease
SHEEP and lamb sectors recorded a pullback in throughput during the March quarter according to Meat and Livestock Australia.
This reflected a tightening in supply following elevated turn-off in 2025.
National sheep slaughter fell to 2.05 million head, down 23 per cent quarter-on-quarter and 32 per cent year-on-year.
Mutton production declined to 51,720 tonnes, a 31 per cent drop compared to the same quarter last year.
MLA market information manager Stephen Bignell said the decline points to a rebalancing phase across the sheep sector.
“We’re seeing a contraction in sheep supply following a period of high turn-off, particularly through 2025,” he said.
“Lower slaughter volumes this quarter reflects reduced availability, with several southern processing regions recording notably softer throughput.”
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Key processing states recorded sharp declines, with volumes easing across Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Sheep carcase weights also slipped to 25.2kg, down on both the previous quarter and the five year average, suggesting a higher proportion of lighter stock entering the system.
Lamb production followed a similar trend, with slaughter at 5.8 million head, down 15 per cent year-on-year, and production easing 10 per cent to 150,551 tonnes.
However, lamb carcase weights increased to 25.8kg, up six per cent year-on-year, partially offsetting lower throughput.
“While lamb volumes have eased, improved carcase weights are helping support overall production,” Mr Bignell said.
“That lift reflects ongoing gains in productivity, including the continued uptake of improved feeding and finishing systems.”