The value of Queensland’s agricultural sector is projected to boom to a second-highest-ever valuation of $23.56 billion in 2024-25.
New AgTrends figures released last month show a promising year ahead, despite challenges such as declining cattle prices, drier conditions and major natural disasters in 2023-24 leading to a valuation of $22.1 billion for the year.
The valuation remains higher than the five-year average and showcases the resilience of Queensland agriculture, with a corresponding supply chain value estimated at $33.88 billion.
Cattle and calves once again took the gold medal as Queensland’s highest-valued commodity in 2023-24, contributing $5.71 billion to the state’s economy.
Meanwhile meat processing ($2.40B) and sugarcane ($2.06B) took the silver and bronze positions respectively.
The recent statistics highlight Mackay's significance in the agricultural landscape, supported by a remarkable GVP growth rate of 23%, which showcases the region's dynamic and expanding agricultural sector.
Sugarcane remains a cornerstone of Queensland's agricultural economy, with the Mackay region playing a critical part in its success. In 2023-24, sugarcane was the third highest-valued commodity, contributing $2.06 billion to the state’s economy.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Queensland’s food and fibre is the best in the world, and our primary producers have showed remarkable resilience in delivering a bumper 2023-24 despite challenging conditions.
“While Queensland is officially drought-free, conditions were drier overall leading to tougher conditions for growers and graziers.
“Our traditional titans of beef and sugar remain a cornerstone of the Queensland economy, and it’s great to see strong growth for many growers, particularly for macadamias, sugar, chickpeas, apples and strawberries.”
Highest GVP in 2023-24 by LGA ($):
Toowoomba $1.27 billion
Western Downs $951 million
Bundaberg $899 million
Burdekin $735 million
Cassowary Coast $727 million
Highest GVP growth in 2023-24 by LGA (%):
Hinchinbrook 29%
Douglas 24%
Mackay 23%
Burdekin 19%
Cairns 12%
Highest commodities growth in 2023-24 (%):
Macadamias 86.3%
Chickpeas 37.1%
Sugarcane 32.7%
Sugar processing 23.9%
Apples 7.4%
For the latest AgTrends statistics visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries‘ DataFarm website.
Sugarcane remains a cornerstone of Queensland's agricultural economy, with the Mackay region playing a critical part in its success. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
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