A statistical and econometric analysis of how weather impacts Australian livestock markets
22 April 2025
Focus area: Industry insights and economics
Program stream: Growth and global competitiveness
Project number: 2025-1042
This research highlighted the significant influence of weather on Australian cattle and lamb markets, showing that up to 54 per cent of cattle and 32 per cent of lamb price variability can be attributed to weather over the long run. Key weather drivers include soil moisture in southern Queensland and northern NSW for cattle, and precipitation in South Australia and southern Victoria for lamb. The findings highlight the need for better weather forecasting and policy support to improve industry risk management and decision-making.