Straw prices climb with livestock producers seeking bulk feed

Demand from livestock producers is driving up straw prices across southern Australia. We break down the latest figures.

Demand from livestock producers is pushing prices up for straw across all regions.

The latest figures from the Australian Fodder Industry Association shows that South Australia is leading the way with higher prices.

Although there have been bump ups in price across Victoria too.

Straw has increased by $20 a tonne in South Australia, ranging from $160 to $210 a tonne, and the trend is also being felt in Victoria and southern NSW.

Luke Webb of Logan Contracting said livestock producers were looking for some bulk to add to supplementary feed, which meant straw was in demand.

“Demand has been pretty constant, and many people are looking to use straw to mix with better quality feed,” he said.

Scott Smith, also of Logan Contracting, was recently loading up wheaten straw near Mount Wallace that was destined as stock feed for Victorian clients.

Contractors and farmers say there has been a greater demand for straw for livestock feed. Picture: Zoe Phillips

AFIA figures show a pattern of demand for straw, with farmers preparing for the upcoming colder months and securing livestock feed.

In the Goulburn/Murray region, there are reports of hay movements across the region and interstate, and there has been a steady increase in straw prices.

Straw increased in that area by $5 a tonne in the past week to settle at $120 to $285 a tonne.

Gippsland farmer’s fodder producers have also experienced an increase in straw prices, which range from $170 to $190 a tonne, indicating a $5 a tonne rise from the previous week.

In southwest Victoria, where seasonal conditions remain dry, there was a $5 a tonne increase recorded, with prices quoted from $115 to $175 a tonne.

Western Australian producers have recorded a $10 a tonne rise for straw, with prices ranging from $100 to $160 a tonne.