Australia Edible Meat Market Size, Share and Growth Analysis Report: Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)

Australia Edible Meat Market Overview

The Australia edible meat market is globally recognised for its premium-grade meat, supported by rigorous farming protocols and strong animal welfare standards. As a key exporter of beef, lamb, and other meats, Australia services high-demand regions such as Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, red meat production rose 3.9% and chicken meat 2.9% in the March 2025 quarter (seasonally adjusted). Increasing global demand, especially from China, Japan, and South Korea, continues to drive export volume and bolster industry competitiveness in global markets.

Advanced processing technologies remain a core driver in the growth of the Australia meat market, facilitating consistent product quality and alignment with international food safety standards. Australian livestock is selectively bred for superior taste and nutritional content, which appeals to both export and domestic markets. With growing demand for premium meat across Asia and a strong local preference for ethically sourced, high-quality meat, producers are scaling operations.

Australia Edible Meat Market Growth

The Australia edible meat market benefits significantly from robust traceability systems, enabling end-to-end product tracking from farm to table, enhancing consumer trust in safety and quality. Free trade agreements have improved global market access, while advancements in genetics, feed optimisation, and production efficiency continue to elevate yield and quality. Australia exported 1.84 million shipped weight tonnes of red meat to over 100 countries, valued at a record AUD 17.08 billion for the 12 months ending November 2023, reflecting strong international demand and competitive export capability.

The Australia edible meat industry revenue is impacting national economic performance, contributing billions in revenue through domestic and export channels. The sector supports employment across the supply chain, from farming and processing to logistics, delivering substantial economic benefits, particularly to regional and rural communities. In response to evolving consumer behaviour, Australian producers are also investing in plant-based meat alternatives, diversifying product portfolios and strengthening market resilience.

Key Trends and Developments

The Australia edible meat market growth is boosted by premiumisation and traceability driving consumer trust, technological integration enhancing efficiency and quality, rising demand for alternative and hybrid protein solutions, and sustainability and ethical farming remaining at the forefront of industry practices.

February 2025

Melbourne-based Magic Valley secured an AUD 100,000 government grant under the Industry Growth Program to advance its cultivated pork and lamb production. The funding supported commercialisation, cost reduction, and scale-up efforts, aligning with Australia’s low-emissions goals and growing consumer interest in sustainable, alternative protein sources.

September 2024

Australian brand vEEF launched a carbon-neutral plant-based meat range at price parity with animal products. The chef-crafted, nutrient-rich products responded to rising demand from “meat reducers” and aimed to make sustainable eating more accessible, aligning with health, environmental, and budget-conscious consumer motivations across the Australian market.

June 2024

Dematic launched its all-encompassing automation system at an Australian meat processing facility. The system integrates the Dematic Multishuttle Meat Buffer with freezer-rated AGVs, boosting safety, accuracy, and efficiency in cold storage. It reduces manual handling, mitigates health risks, and improves order fulfilment, with AGVs capable of operating in temperatures as low as -25°C.

April 2024

Australia’s Vow became the nation’s first and the world’s third company to bring a cultured meat product to market. With regulatory approval from Singapore, Vow’s innovative cultivated, quailmarketed as Quailia, showcased cutting-edge food science and marked a major milestone in sustainable, ethical protein production through imaginative branding and culinary innovation.

Rising Demand for Premium and Traceable Meat Products is Boosting the Demand of the Australia Edible Meat Market

Consumers are increasingly prioritising transparency and quality, driving demand for premium meat with full traceability from farm to fork. Australian producers leverage advanced tracking systems and ethical farming standards to meet this expectation. This trend is fuelled by growing health consciousness, food safety concerns, and a shift towards sustainable consumption, both domestically and in export markets.

Technological Advancements in Meat Production is Impacting the Australia Edible Meat Industry Revenue

The adoption of precision agriculture, data-driven breeding, and automated processing systems is transforming Australia’s meat industry. These innovations enhance productivity, improve animal health, and deliver consistent meat quality. As producers face pressure to reduce environmental impact while increasing output, technology plays a pivotal role in optimising supply chains and maintaining Australia’s competitive edge in global meat exports.

Growth of Plant-Based and Hybrid Meat Alternatives is Boosting the Australia Edible Meat Market Growth

Consumer preferences are diversifying, with growing interest in plant-based and blended meat products. Australian meat companies are responding by investing in alternative protein lines to complement traditional offerings. This trend is driven by ethical, environmental, and health considerations, creating new market segments and positioning the industry to cater to flexitarian and health-conscious demographics without compromising traditional meat revenues.

Sustainability and Ethical Farming at the Forefront is Influecing the Australia Edible Meat Market Dynamics and Trends

Environmental responsibility is increasingly shaping industry practices, with producers adopting sustainable livestock management, carbon reduction initiatives, and regenerative agriculture. Ethical farming and low-emission strategies are being prioritised to align with global ESG expectations. Consumer and investor pressures are key drivers, positioning sustainability not only as a compliance requirement but as a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving protein market.

Australia Edible Meat Market Trends

Sustainability is emerging as a key market trend in the Australia edible meat market, with producers increasingly implementing environmentally conscious strategies such as water reduction, responsible feed sourcing, and waste minimisation. These initiatives align with rising consumer expectations and regulatory pressures to reduce carbon emissions. Meat & Livestock Australia launched the Carbon EDGE programme in 2023, a two-day, industry-led training to enhance producers’ capabilities in carbon accounting and sustainable on-farm practices. This move supports the sector’s carbon neutrality goals and reflects broader global shifts towards low-emission food systems, including renewable energy adoption, sustainable packaging, and eco-efficient logistics across the meat supply chain.

Opportunities in the Australia Edible Meat Market

Technological innovation is reshaping the Australia edible meat market dynamics and trends, driven by demands for greater efficiency, traceability, and sustainability. Automation, AI, and precision farming are improving productivity and animal welfare, while breeding and genetic innovations are enhancing meat quality. Data analytics is streamlining supply chains, reducing waste, and enabling predictive decision-making. Blockchain is being explored to strengthen traceability from farm to consumer. According to Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), key developments include BladeStop (worker safety), MEQ Probe and NMR sensors (IMF detection), Veritide scanners (contamination control), DTS stunning (humane slaughter), and ALMTech tools (carcase optimisation), supporting industry growth and resilience.

Market Restraints

The Australia edible meat market is constrained by rising operational costs, notably in feed, fuel, and labour, challenging price competitiveness and margin stability. Heightened environmental scrutiny around emissions and land degradation is driving demand for sustainable practices. Regulatory pressures, spanning biosecurity and animal welfare, add complexity, particularly for small-scale operators.

Biosecurity threats, such as foot-and-mouth disease, pose significant reputational and supply chain risks. Additionally, shifting consumer preferences towards plant-based and ethically sourced alternatives are reshaping market dynamics, compelling producers to pursue innovation and portfolio diversification.

Australia Edible Meat Market Share

Market Analysis by Type

According to the Australia edible meat market report, beef remains a dominant segment, driven by strong consumer preference for nutrient-rich, high-protein animal products. Its nutritional profile-offering essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc-reinforces its role in promoting muscle function and general wellness. Furthermore, adherence to rigorous food safety and animal welfare protocols enhances Australian beef’s premium positioning both domestically and internationally. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) forecasts the gross value of beef, veal, and live cattle production to reach AUD 16.3 billion in 2024–25, a 19% increase from AUD 13.7 billion in 2023–24 (ABS, 2024), signalling sectoral strength and sustained demand.

Poultry continues to shape the Australia edible meat market landscape, propelled by rising health consciousness and demand for lean protein alternatives. Low in fat and calories, poultry offers essential nutrients such as B vitamins and selenium, contributing to immune function and metabolic health. Its affordability, coupled with shorter production cycles and efficient feed conversion, further drives market growth. Australian poultry production also aligns with strict animal welfare standards, enhancing consumer trust. According to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES, 2021), average per capita chicken consumption reached 46.4 kg in 2020–21, comprising nearly 50% of total meat intake.

Market Insights by Form

Frozen meat remains a cornerstone of the Australia edible meat market, offering extended shelf life, convenience, and reduced food waste. Freezing preserves essential nutrients, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring consistent quality and safety. In December 2024, HyFun Foods partnered with Woolworths to introduce premium frozen snacks into mainstream grocery aisles. This reflects consumer demand for convenient, high-quality, plant-based ready-to-eat products. Fueled by busy lifestyles and shifting dietary habits, the frozen segment benefits from superior freezing and packaging technologies. These market drivers are projected to support continued growth and diversification within Australia’s frozen meat category.

Processed meat products are bolstering the growth of the Australia edible meat market, offering convenience, versatility, and consistent taste. Ready-to-eat formats save meal preparation time, while added flavours and preservatives extend shelf life. In October 2023, Australian Beef Co. launched a premium range of locally sourced raw beef cuts, emphasising sustainability and transparency. This supports growing consumer preferences for ethically produced high-quality meat. The processed meat segment benefits from increased retail innovation, as brands leverage value-added offerings and clean-label credentials. These market drivers are set to sustain demand and reinforce retail’s critical role in product development and consumer engagement.

Australia Edible Meat Market Regional Insights

New South Wales Edible Meat Market Overview

New South Wales drives significant demand in the edible meat sector, supported by a large urban population and strong consumer purchasing power. Innovation in premium and sustainable meat products aligns with rising health and ethical consumption trends, positioning NSW as a critical growth market within Australia’s meat industry. NSW accounts for about 35% of Australia’s chicken meat production and is the country's largest producer. In 2022-23, chicken meat production in NSW rose by 1.8% to reach 495,023 tonnes.

Queensland Edible Meat Market Trends

Queensland’s edible meat market is shaped by increased demand for protein-rich and convenient options, reflecting its growing population and diverse demographics. Rising investment in automation and supply chain efficiency enhances production capabilities, while consumer preference for ethically sourced and locally produced meat drives market expansion. Nearly half of Australia's beef production comes from Queensland, and beef exports from the state surged by AUD 902 million, marking a 14.3% increase in the year leading up to November 2023.

Western Australia Edible Meat Market Dynamics

Western Australia benefits from strong export activity and resource-driven economic growth, which support rising disposable incomes and meat consumption. The market is influenced by advancements in animal welfare practices and sustainable farming, with innovation in processing technologies driving competitiveness within domestic and international edible meat markets. The state’s livestock supply chains are significant employers, with over 7,700 individuals working in livestock production and another 4,300 in processing.

Victoria Edible Meat Market Drivers

Victoria’s edible meat market is propelled by evolving consumer preferences towards premium, traceable, and sustainably sourced meat. Robust retail infrastructure and active foodservice sectors further stimulate demand. Emphasis on product differentiation and adherence to stringent quality standards are key drivers fostering continued market expansion.

Australian Capital Territory Edible Meat Market Opportunities

The Australian Capital Territory presents growth opportunities through increasing demand for convenience-focused, ready-to-eat meat products. Proximity to governmental and institutional buyers enhances niche product uptake. Emerging consumer trends favouring plant-based alternatives and ethical sourcing offer potential for product innovation and market diversification.

Competitive Landscape

The Australia edible meat market key players operate across the retail and foodservice sectors, specialising in premium beef, lamb, pork, and diverse meat products. These firms prioritise strategic partnerships with reputable global suppliers to ensure consistent quality and supply chain resilience. Market growth is driven by rising consumer demand for high-quality, traceable, and customised meat offerings. Key players focus on strengthening supplier and customer relationships, enabling tailored solutions that address evolving market preferences.

Key Industry Players

Devro Limited: Headquartered in Denholm, Scotland, and established in 1950, Devro Limited is a global leader in the production of collagen casings for the food industry. The company manufactures a wide range of casings used in the production of sausages and other meat products, serving markets around the world.

Gamekeepers of Australia Pty Ltd: Based in Melbourne, Australia, and founded in 1999, Gamekeepers of Australia Pty Ltd specialises in premium game meats, offering products such as kangaroo, venison, and emu. The company prides itself on providing high-quality, sustainable meat options to both domestic and international markets, with a focus on ethical sourcing.

The Australian Meat Emporium: The Australian Meat Emporium, established in 2007, is a prominent Australian meat retailer headquartered in Melbourne. Specialising in a wide range of meats, including beef, lamb, and poultry, it offers both retail and wholesale services, providing high-quality, locally sourced products to customers across the country.

Mast Link Australia Pty Ltd: Mast Link Australia Pty Ltd, founded in 2013 and headquartered in Queensland, focuses on importing and distributing high-quality meats, particularly in the wholesale sector. The company is known for its strong supplier relationships and commitment to delivering premium meat products to the Australian food service and retail industries.

Another key player in the Australia edible meat market report is Dorper Lamb Pty Ltd. among others.