Australia's breeding ewe flock declines 10 percent in two years

Australia's national breeding ewe population has decreased by 10 percent over the last two years. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data for the 2025 financial year, the population was estimated at 43 million head. Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) projections suggest the number could decline further to a record low of approximately 40 million head through the first half of 2026.

Stuart Bull, MLA's market information manager, noted that tight seasons and high prices for sheep sent to processors contributed to the flock reduction. However, recent slaughter data and producer intention surveys suggest the decline may have stabilized. While it is too early to confirm a genuine rebuild of the flock, industry indicators suggest the period of rapid reduction in breeding ewes may have ended.