Australia Edible Meat Market: Trends, Growth, and Sustainability

The Australia edible meat market, valued at AUD 6.35 billion in 2024, has experienced significant growth, driven by the increasing acceptance of packaged food products among millennials. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 1.65% from 2025 to 2034, potentially reaching AUD 7.48 billion by 2034, as meat producers increasingly embrace sustainable farming practices with a focus on environmental responsibility. This growth is also supported by the rising demand for protein-rich diets, evolving consumer preferences, and innovations in food production that align with sustainability and animal welfare.

Market Overview

The edible meat market in Australia has been a cornerstone of the country’s food industry for decades, with a rich tradition of beef, lamb, poultry, and pork production. Australia is one of the largest exporters of meat globally, particularly known for its premium beef and lamb products. However, domestically, the market has seen a shift in consumer behavior, with increasing interest in packaged, ready-to-eat, and value-added meat products that cater to the busy lifestyles of millennials and other time-conscious consumers.

As the demand for convenience food rises, packaged and processed meat products have gained popularity. The growing trend of meal kits, ready-to-cook options, and pre-packaged meals has contributed to the market’s expansion. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainability and the ethical treatment of animals is influencing the way Australian consumers choose their meat products, further driving the market’s growth in a responsible direction.

Key Drivers of Growth

Several key factors are driving the growth of the Australian edible meat market:

1. Shift Towards Packaged and Processed Meat Products: The convenience factor is playing a pivotal role in the growth of the edible meat market. With busy schedules and an increasing number of working professionals and young consumers, packaged meat products, such as pre-marinated cuts, ready-to-cook meals, and frozen meats, are becoming more popular. These products provide ease of preparation while meeting the demand for high-quality meat options.

2. Growing Health Consciousness and Protein Demand: As consumers place more emphasis on healthy eating, protein-rich foods like meat are gaining even more importance in diets. Beef, poultry, lamb, and pork are all rich sources of essential amino acids, iron, and other nutrients. This health-conscious mindset, especially among fitness enthusiasts and younger generations, is driving the demand for meat products that offer not only taste but also nutritional value.

3. Sustainability in Meat Production: A growing concern about the environmental impact of meat production is driving both producers and consumers to look for more sustainable meat options. Australian meat producers are increasingly adopting sustainable farming practices, such as reducing carbon emissions, implementing regenerative farming techniques, and promoting animal welfare. This trend aligns with the values of many consumers who prefer meat products that are responsibly sourced and produced.

4. Innovations in Plant-Based and Lab-Grown Meat: While traditional meat continues to dominate the market, the rise of plant-based meat alternatives and lab-grown meat products is influencing the edible meat sector in Australia. These innovations offer environmentally friendly options for consumers who may not want to entirely give up meat but are looking for more sustainable alternatives. Although plant-based meat products are still in their early stages, they are gaining traction, especially among health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

5. Increase in Disposable Income: As disposable incomes rise, Australians are increasingly able to afford premium cuts of meat and value-added meat products. Consumers are willing to invest in high-quality meat, particularly those that are free from hormones, antibiotics, and other chemicals. This trend toward premium, ethically sourced meat is expected to drive the market toward higher-value products.

6. Rising Export Demand: Australia remains one of the world’s leading exporters of meat, particularly beef, lamb, and mutton. The country’s trade relationships, particularly with countries in Asia, have been a significant contributor to the growth of the edible meat sector. Australia’s reputation for producing high-quality meat is attracting more global demand, further supporting the market’s growth potential.

Market Segmentation

The Australian edible meat market can be segmented based on product type, distribution channel, and region.

1. By Product Type:

   • Beef: Beef remains one of the most popular meats consumed in Australia. The country is well known for producing premium beef, with domestic consumption driven by strong demand for steaks, minced beef, and other beef-based products.
   • Poultry: Chicken is a staple in Australian households and continues to see strong demand. Poultry is particularly popular in processed forms such as sausages, nuggets, and pre-cooked meals.
   • Lamb: Lamb holds a significant share in the Australian meat market, particularly in premium cuts like chops and roasts. Lamb is popular in both domestic consumption and export markets.
   • Pork: Pork is also a popular choice, with products ranging from fresh cuts to processed items such as bacon and sausages.
   • Processed Meat: This category includes sausages, cold cuts, bacon, and other ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare meat products. The demand for these products is rising, as they cater to busy consumers seeking convenience.

2. By Distribution Channel:

   • Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: These retail outlets remain the dominant sales channel for edible meat, offering a wide variety of fresh and packaged meat products. Major supermarket chains in Australia, such as Woolworths, Coles, and IGA, play a key role in the distribution of meat products to consumers.
   • Online Retail: The growing trend of e-commerce and online grocery shopping has led to a rise in the online sale of meat products. Consumers now have access to a broader range of meat products delivered directly to their doorsteps, with the added convenience of shopping from home.
   • Specialty Stores and Butcheries: Independent butcher shops and specialty food stores continue to cater to customers seeking high-quality, locally sourced, or organic meat options. These stores often offer personalized services and premium cuts, which are particularly attractive to health-conscious consumers.
   • Foodservice and HoReCa: The foodservice sector, including restaurants, cafes, and hotels, also represents a significant portion of meat consumption in Australia. The HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) industry is a major buyer of bulk meat products for food preparation.

3. By Region:

   • New South Wales: As one of the largest meat-producing regions in Australia, New South Wales is home to many meat processing plants and farming operations. The region is a significant contributor to both domestic consumption and exports.
   • Queensland: Queensland is another major contributor to the edible meat market, particularly in beef production. The state’s extensive cattle ranches support both domestic supply and export needs.
   • Victoria: Known for its strong agricultural industry, Victoria is a key player in the production of lamb and pork. The state has seen significant investments in sustainable farming practices, which are supporting the growth of the edible meat market.
   • Western Australia: Western Australia also plays an important role in meat production, particularly in the export of beef and lamb.

Competitive Landscape

The Australian edible meat market is highly competitive, with a mix of large players, local producers, and niche companies catering to specialized demands. Major companies in the market include:

• JBS Australia: As one of the largest meat processors in the country, JBS Australia produces a wide range of beef, lamb, and pork products for both domestic and international markets. The company has embraced sustainable farming practices and aims to reduce its environmental footprint.

• Teys Australia: Another key player in the Australian meat industry, Teys Australia focuses on producing high-quality beef products. The company has made significant strides in adopting more sustainable production practices and increasing transparency in its supply chain.

• Golden Cockerel: A leading poultry producer in Australia, Golden Cockerel is known for its high-quality chicken products. The company offers a range of value-added products, including marinated chicken and ready-to-cook options.

• Craig Mostyn Group: This group is a major supplier of lamb and sheep products, with an emphasis on premium cuts. Craig Mostyn is known for its sustainable farming practices and commitment to animal welfare.

Future Outlook

The Australian edible meat market is expected to continue growing at a moderate pace over the next decade. With a projected CAGR of 1.65% from 2025 to 2034, the market will likely see continued demand for traditional meat products, along with a rising interest in sustainable and ethically sourced options. The growing trend of plant-based meat alternatives may also influence market dynamics, offering consumers more choices without compromising on their dietary preferences.

As the market evolves, meat producers will increasingly focus on sustainability, with a stronger emphasis on reducing environmental impact and improving animal welfare. Innovations in food production, including lab-grown and plant-based meat alternatives, are also expected to play a larger role in the Australian market, catering to the needs of environmentally conscious consumers.

 

By 2034, the Australian edible meat market is projected to reach AUD 7.48 billion, driven by a combination of traditional meat consumption and the growing demand for innovative, sustainable, and high-quality meat products.