Hay Report

National Summary

National background comments: report for the week ending 18 June 2021.

The next update will be on Friday 25 June 2021. Direct links to reports on each dairy region immediately follow this national summary for hay.

There was extreme weather across many parts of the country over the last fortnight, from snow in central New South Wales to storms and flooding in Gippsland.

As winter conditions have settled across the eastern side, many farmers are starting to utilise conserved fodder to feed stock with pasture growth slowing now. There are reports South Australian farmers who have been feeding out since autumn are beginning to need more feed to keep stock in good condition as they work down on farm stores.

Lucerne continues to be purchased in New South Wales, particularly mid-grade quality bales for sheep.

Limited trade is driven by local demand in most areas and extensive freighting is reportedly not expected, as seen in previous years.

The announcement of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and the UK could see increased demand for red meat. This may increase fodder purchases by feedlots longer term.

The mice plague continues to damage stored grain and fodder, with concerns there may be a rise in numbers in spring if they can find shelter and food over winter.

Buyers are encouraged to feed test and view fodder before purchasing to be sure of the quality of the feed.

State Summaries

Northern Australia - Summary

• Demand in the Atherton Tablelands remains steady with a small amount moving locally.
• Rainfall in Queensland, particularly around the Atherton Tableland area, has supported pasture growth for grazing.
• There have been reports of a significant reduction in hay being made in the area this past season. Moving into the winter cropping season, many analysts anticipate hay production may be reduced while demand remains subdued.

Southern Australia - Summary

• Local sources suggest a good autumn break has been received through New South Wales and Northern Victoria now, with many growers starting seeding.
• Gowers in New South Wales are continuing to manage the mice plague.
• Seeding of new season crops is well underway, growers need follow up rain for germination in South Australia, Wimmera and the Mallee.
• Straw has been baled mostly in South Australia to meet contracts for the next twelve months for mushroom and chicken farms, as well as feedlots.
• Demand still expected to be down for some time.
• Quality varies depending on the severity of weather damage.

Western Australia - Summary

• Sources suggest a supportive autumn break has been received from rain over the last month, beginning the new cropping season.
• Reports suggest most hay has been moving domestically due to recent trade issues with China. There are reports of ongoing uncertainty for new season hay production due to current trading concerns.
• The export industry continues to dominate the WA market, as exporters continue to seek out quality hay.
• Many properties in the region are still looking for a supportive autumn break.
• Prices remain strong for all fodder types in WA.

Price change in table below reflects moves since previous report (4 June 2021)

All Location Hay Prices

About the Hay Report

Why the hay report is created

Farmers, government, industry advocacy and businesses across the supply chain require independently produced, unbiased data on the industry to inform strategic decisions and policy formation.

Hay reports provide an independent industry view, bringing together key data and insights across the supply chain and industry without any vested interest.

The hay report is created using data provided by the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA).

Interpreting the reports

Hay prices are based on shedded hay without weather damage, of good quality and colour. There is a wide variation in quality for hay, so prices are indicative for a mid-range product.

Prices are estimates based on delivery to dairy farms with allowance for freight, storage, and marketing costs, but exclusive of GST. Actual prices may vary for quality or other reasons.

In this video, dairy farm manager Brian Corr explains how Dairy Australia's hay and grain email updates help him make more informed decisions on-farm.