The Australian pork industry is currently in the midst of a significant price downturn.
The pork price started to decline in 2017 and this has continued this year with farmgate prices now below the cost of production. Pork producers are now not only battling low prices but also increased prices for grain to feed their pigs.
The latest industry data is not predicting a change soon, with pork numbers to remain high and suppressed prices until October.
As the current market conditions are going to remain for some time, we want to remind producers that there is assistance available. You are not alone during this time and the industry is here to provide assistance across a range of areas.
NSW Farmers is urging producers to seek assistance, both financial and personally, for themselves, their families, and businesses. There are a range of Federal and State government programs available to help pork producers in hardship.
A key program is the Rural Financial Counselling Service and there are local offices throughout the state.
This service provides information and assistance on financial positions, budgets and applications for assistance, looking at the Farm Household Allowance, and applying for concessional loans from the State Government.
We also encourage accessing mental health support. There are a range of services from Beyond Blue, Lifeline and Men’s Shed that can provide support.
NSW Farmers is also encouraging producers to remain up to date on industry information. Australian Pork Ltd monitors the supply and demand situation closely so it can inform producers of developments.
All other farmers we request that you look out for the pink PorkMark and purchase Australian pork to help support our pork producers.
- NSW Farmers’ pork committee chair Ean Pollard
