Cattle Market Conditions Update
As always, our Livestock team has been closely analysing the trends and changes in the cattle market to help us strategically position your next livestock sale. As we step into 2025, here’s a comprehensive overview of the trends, projections, and factors shaping the market this year.
Feedlot Margins and Activity
Feedlot margins ended 2024 on the tighter side, prompting feedlot operators to focus on fulfilling contracts, rather than buying excess volumes of cattle. As saleyards resumed operation in 2025, we saw this cautious approach to pivot, leading to an increased supply of cattle. Further, we observed a number of feedlot expansions in 2024, which led to an increase in capacity this year. We see this development influencing market dynamics significantly as the year progresses.
Processing and Export Projections
At the tail end of 2024, processors were operating near full capacity, with demand showing no signs of slowing down. According to MLA projections, slaughter numbers in 2025 are expected to reach 8.38 million head— that’s a 2.4% increase compared to 2024. However, a forecasted 5kg decline in carcass weights (down to 305kg) could offset this rise.
On the export front, Australia is tracking towards a record-breaking year, with a projected 17,000-tonne increase bringing the total to 1.904 million tonnes.
Market Confidence and Stability
The cattle market stabilised significantly in 2024 compared to the fluctuations observed in 2023. This newfound stability boosted overall confidence among stakeholders. As we move into 2025, buying confidence and its impact on market conditions will remain a key factor to watch closely.
Weather and Pasture Conditions
Queensland’s rainfall in December 2024 and early January 2025 has been patchy. While some producers benefitted from storm activity, others faced rapid feed burn-off due to high temperatures. Encouragingly, we’ve seen more rain for Queensland in the past week! This has brought much-needed relief to areas that missed out and helped maintain feed quality where it’s already established.
Looking to buy or sell Livestock in 2025? Work with our team and benefit from our rural insights and extensive experience. For all Livestock sale enquiries, please contact Jess at on 0409 062 011 or jess@ruralpropertylivestock.com to find out more.