Survey highlights fuel pressures on Australian red meat industry

09 Apr 2026

Key points

97% of survey respondents indicated they use diesel within their operations.
Only 30% of respondents said they have access to enough fuel for the next month.
There is concern about the relationship between fuel availability and price.

A survey investigating fuel availability across the country – conducted by the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC) between 20–26 March – has provided insight into the impact of rising fuel prices and supply constraints on businesses within the red meat industry.

In total, 323 respondents across 13 industry sectors – including sheep and cattle farms and feedlots, mixed farms, meat processors, meat smallgoods producers and others – were surveyed.

Key findings from responses collected were:

All industry sectors are predominantly dependent on diesel and are under pressure, with 97% of respondents indicating they use diesel.
It was evident that there was significant uncertainty of fuel access for essential operations.
While fuel is regularly used across all months, the two peak demand periods for fuel are April/May and October/November.
At the time of the survey, Western NSW and the Great Southern region of WA had 28% and 43% (respectively) of respondents say they did not have access to enough liquid fuel to maintain essential operations.

Responses made it clear that current fuel supply challenges are being driven by price and limited availability. The perspective from respondents of the survey noted that these issues are linked to each other, potentially creating a negative spiral. As availability declines, demand continues to increase, leading to further price increases.

View information to help producers to manage fuel and fertiliser supply challenges.

Attribute content to: Alex Fry, MLA Market Information Analyst.

Information is correct at time of publication on 9 April 2026.

MLA makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness or currency of any information contained in this publication. Your use of, or reliance on, any content is entirely at your own risk and MLA accepts no liability for any losses or damages incurred by you as a result of that use or reliance. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written consent of MLA. All use of MLA publications, reports and information is subject to MLA’s Market Report and Information Terms of Use.