STRONGER SEASONS BOOST WOOLGROWER CONFIDENCE

By Jessica Dempster

A recent article published in the AWI Woolgrower Newsletter says that improved seasonal conditions and stronger wool and livestock prices are restoring confidence among woolgrowers after two difficult seasons.

Australian Wool Innovation Chairman George Millington says many southern sheep and wheat regions have experienced a major turnaround over the past 12 months.

He says his South Australian properties recorded record-low rainfall for two consecutive years, placing significant pressure on livestock and pastures.

However, improved rainfall has coincided with stronger returns for lamb, mutton and wool, with some micron categories increasing by around 60 per cent.

Australia’s national wool clip has fallen from around 350 million kilograms to about 250 million, as producers have changed their enterprise mix.

The latest forecast puts 2026/27 wool production at 249.3 million kilograms, down 1.8 per cent.

Mr Millington says constrained supply and continuing demand are providing a more positive outlook for woolgrowers over the next 12 to 24 months.