Almost 80 per cent of producers report a positive outlook for the year ahead, marking a significant lift in sentiment across every state and both major production systems.
The findings reflect an industry feeling supported by improved rainfall, solid market conditions and sustained global demand for Australian beef.
MLA’s Market Information Manager Stephen Bignell said the data showed producers were looking toward 2026 with renewed optimism after navigating variable conditions in previous years.
“The confidence being expressed is not just short-term but signals a belief in the resilience and future potential of the sector,” Mr Bignell said.
“Producers are telling us they feel confident in the year ahead. Improved seasonal conditions and stable pricing are giving producers the certainty they need.
“We are also seeing strong interest from international markets, which continues to underpin domestic confidence.
“It is clear that producers are positioning themselves to take advantage of the opportunities they see emerging.”
This heightened confidence is translating directly into planning decisions on-farm.
Half of all surveyed producers expect to increase herd numbers in the coming year, and many are choosing to retain more heifers as replacements or invest in additional livestock as part of longer-term rebuilding strategies.
These decisions are closely linked to expectations of favourable conditions and a desire among many producers to grow and strengthen their operations.
Mr Bignell noted that these patterns demonstrate clear forward thinking and willingness among producers to invest in herd productivity.
“Retaining more heifers tells us producers are thinking well beyond this season. It shows they are making decisions that build resilience and opportunity into their herds. Confidence is not just an attitude shift, it is showing up in how producers are planning for the future,” Mr Bignell said.
The survey results also highlight that confidence is widespread across both northern and southern production regions.
While each region faces its own seasonal and operational challenges, both report very strong sentiment and similar expectations for the year ahead.
Producers point to improving rainfall, better growing conditions and a more settled pricing environment as key factors boosting their outlook.
Sales behaviour also reflects the strengthening optimism, with producers expecting solid volumes to carry into the first half of 2026. Saleyards remain the primary channel for most operations, while larger producers indicate growing engagement with direct processor and feedlot pathways.
