In 2017-18, NSW Primary Industries performance was determined by several key factors including prices received, productive output, the macroeconomic environment, and seasonal conditions. The season was characterised by a lack of rainfall, with winter being the ninth driest on record. Despite average rainfall during spring, below average rainfall from January through to June led to limited livestock feed, failed winter crops in key regions and decreased stored soil moisture levels heading into the warmer months.

In this context, while 2017-18 presented challenges, NSW primary industries reached an estimated output of $17.5 billion.

Beef, sheep, wool and cotton all performed well, accounting for 33% of the state’s output, with a combined value of $5.9 billion. The wool industry went from strength to strength as a result of record breaking prices and strong export demand. Cotton benefited from increased production, yield and steady prices, culminating in a 22% increase in output.  Beef and sheep production rose as farmers looked to destock. NSW crop production including wheat, pulses, barley and oilseeds were all impacted by seasonal conditions. Our $640 million fisheries and forestry sectors continued to grow and play a vital part in the state’s economy.

Recreational fishing, including charter fishing, and hunting and game management activities have been included in the measure of the total annual output of NSW’s primary industries for the first time this year, with a combined estimated value of $3.8 billion. This is in recognition of the economic and social benefits to the NSW economy, particularly in regional areas. For reference the term output is retained when discussing farm gate industry value in the document.

NSW primary industry exports earned $5.4 billion, with large increases in beef, sheep, and wool exports driven by higher volumes and prices.

Given the diversity of production across the state, this publication profiles key drivers across a number of important primary industry sectors. Analyses of major factors, attribution stories and output performance for each industry follow, while key industry statistics and drivers are contained in the appendices.