W.RDE.0010 - Value of the Dairy Cattle Export Industry

Summary

Australia exports a significant number of dairy cattle each year, predominantly from southern states to markets such as China and Japan.

These are usually high-value animals with specific pedigree and pregnancy status requirements.

This project analysed the economic value of live dairy cattle exports and the impact of the trade on the regional economies that support it.

It was managed by the LEP RD&E Program, a collaboration between LiveCorp and Meat & Livestock Australia, with input from Dairy Australia.

Objectives

• Determine the contribution of the live dairy cattle export trade to revenue generated for the Australian dairy industry and the benefit of diversifying dairy farm income.
• Articulate the contribution of live exports to employment across dairy production regions.
• Determine the intangible benefits that the livestock export industry creates to support broader dairy industry goals.

Key findings

Australia exports an average of 80,000 head of dairy cattle each year, predominantly from southern states. China is the key market.

In 2020-21 the trade was valued at $258 million, of which $180 million was retained by dairy farmers.

Around 830 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs were supported from rearing of dairy cattle for live export.

Exporting farms made more money than non-exporting farms in all states apart from South Australia.

The livestock export industry provides an important market for surplus heifers.

Australian dairy cattle are favoured in-market because of our:
- good genetic pool
- stringent health protocols
- disease-free status
- resilient animals able to adapt to variable climates, and
- good animal welfare and occupational health and safety practices.

Benefits to industry

This report improves understanding of the contribution of live dairy cattle exports to Australia’s economy, and demonstrates the value of the trade to regional communities and services.