UPDATE: New reports confirm that Queensland’s primary industries are set to achieve a groundbreaking GVP of $26.79 billion for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, marking an impressive 18% increase since last year. The Hon. Tony Perrett, Minister for Primary Industries, announced these figures today, highlighting robust growth across key sectors.
The surge in primary production value demonstrates a significant turnaround, with strong demand pushing the farm gate value of cattle to an all-time high of $7.88 billion—a staggering 30% increase from the previous year. This boost is fueled by elevated processing and export demands, coupled with rising cattle prices and increased slaughter numbers.
Chickpea producers are also reaping rewards, contributing $856 million to the state’s agricultural output, driven by strong export opportunities. Poultry values have soared to $735 million, while cotton production has surged by 13% to reach $1.15 billion. Horticulture, too, is thriving, posting its highest recorded value of $4.76 billion.
Minister Perrett emphasized the key role of the Crisafulli Government’s policies in this turnaround, stating,
“Good seasons, supportive policy settings, strong markets, and confidence in government leadership have created the right environment for record gains.”
This optimistic outlook contrasts sharply with the challenges faced in previous years, highlighting a renewed confidence in Queensland’s agricultural sector.
The Crisafulli Government’s ambitious initiative, Primary Industries Prosper 2050, aims to elevate Queensland’s food production output to $30 billion by 2030. Perrett noted the ongoing need for strategic work to maintain this growth: “We must keep working hard to deliver the right policy settings and build on this record growth,” he added.
Despite the positive news, Perrett expressed caution, acknowledging potential risks such as shifts in trade conditions or natural disasters that could impact these gains. He urged continued collaboration with industry stakeholders to enhance profitability and explore new markets and production methods.
This latest data, released bi-annually through the Department of Primary Industries’ Data Farm Portal, underscores the evolving landscape of Queensland’s agriculture and its critical importance to the state’s economy. As farmers and producers celebrate these record-breaking figures, the focus remains on sustaining this momentum and protecting the sector from future uncertainties.
Expect more updates as Queensland navigates the path toward its ambitious agricultural targets, a journey marked by resilience and opportunity.
