Why Are Australian Beef Prices So High Right Now (Oct 25)?

Australian beef prices are soaring, with the National Processor Cow Indicator (NPCI) hitting a record 390¢/kg liveweight (lwt) in September 2025. Strong global demand, record exports, and processor competition are all driving this surge. While this is a positive sign for Australia’s cattle industry, it’s also reshaping how everyday Australians think about value for money when it comes to beef.

What’s Driving the Price Surge?

US Demand at Record Levels

The US is short on lean beef, and with new tariffs on Brazilian and New Zealand imports, American buyers are snapping up Australian product. That strong demand is pushing processors here to pay top dollar.

Processor-Led Rally

This isn’t a restocker-driven boom. Instead, processors (especially exporters) are behind the record cow prices, with a focus on lean beef for overseas markets.

Record Export Volumes

Australia is shipping huge volumes of beef to the US, China, South Korea, and beyond, which is helping keep prices firm across the board.

Strong Supply

Good seasonal conditions and a large herd mean high slaughter numbers, creating the opportunity to meet global demand while keeping production humming.

Outlook

All signs suggest strong processor demand and high exports will continue to support prices in the near term. US tariffs are likely to keep Australian beef attractive on the global stage, and unless seasonal conditions shift dramatically, volumes will stay high.

That means beef prices are unlikely to ease anytime soon.

What This Means for You

If you’re watching beef prices climb and wondering how to get the most out of your dollar, now might be the time to think differently about beef. Fresh cuts are becoming more expensive, but premium dried meats—like jerky and biltong—offer a shelf-stable, nutrient-dense alternative that delivers the same high-quality Aussie beef flavour without the price rollercoaster.

At Nungra Nibbles, we turn 100% grass-fed Australian beef into artisanal jerky and biltong, air-dried to lock in flavour and nutrients. With rising beef costs, stocking up on long-lasting dried meats is not only smart—it’s delicious.

Bottom Line

Australian beef prices are high, and all signs point to them climbing higher. But that doesn’t mean you need to miss out. By choosing premium dried meats like Nungra Nibbles Jerky & Biltong, you can enjoy the taste of quality Aussie beef, stock up before prices rise further, and snack smarter for the months ahead.