Hay Report

National Summary

National background comments: report for the week ending 15 January 2021.

The next update will be on Friday 22 January 2021. Direct links to reports on each dairy region immediately follow this national summary for hay.

After variable wet weather across the country over the start of summer, conditions became drier in many parts of Australia this week. Some regions, such as the Atherton Tablelands, continue to be impacted by heavy rainfall.

In Victoria and South Australia, straw continues to be baled, with most demand originating from the mushroom and chicken sectors.

After continual summer rain supporting pasture and summer crop growth, and reportedly high cattle prices, demand continues to remain reduced and trade is limited in many regions. Sources indicate demand for hay isn’t expected to increase for some time.

Variable weather conditions over the hay making period has impacted hay quality, with sources suggesting good quality hay may be in short supply this season.

We caution buyers and recommend feed-testing and viewing fodder before purchasing to be sure of quality of the feed.

State Summaries

Northern Australia - Summary

• In the Atherton Tablelands, demand remains steady with limited trade occurring in northern Australia.
• Recent rain received throughout Queensland, particularly in western Queensland, has continued to support pasture growth. However, in regions such as the Darling Downs, the rain has interrupted summer crop planting.
• Compared to previous years, the amount of hay made this season is significantly reduced.
• There are reports of some areas continuing to operate at a low stock capacity.

Southern Australia - Summary

• While there are reports of large crop yields from southern Australia this season, lucerne continues to be cut. However, wet hay making conditions in New South Wales and Victoria has potentially impacted hay quality.
• The hay making season is complete in central South Australia and into the Mallee region, with reports of significantly weather damaged hay. However, some straw continues to be baled to meet contracts for mushroom farms and feedlots.
• Demand still expected to remain reduced for some time.
• Quality varies for the three states depending on the severity of weather damage.

Western Australia - Summary

• In Western Australia, there is very little demand. Most of this demand originates from the export market, seeking good quality hay unimpeded by weather. There are reports of lower quality hay made in Western Australia unable make the export market, will be sold domestically.
• After the season began in dry conditions, late rain received was ideal for finishing off crops.
• Prices remain strong for all fodder types in WA.

Price change in table below reflects moves since previous report (08 January 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.