Rising farm costs threaten to drive up meat prices

South Australians could soon be paying more for meat, as livestock producers continue to grapple with soaring input costs and limited support from the State Government.

South-East farmer and Livestock SA board member Anthony Hurst said sharp increases in diesel and fertiliser prices are already flowing through the supply chain and are likely being felt at the checkout.

“I would expect South Australians are already paying more for their lamb and beef as a result of the eye-watering costs now facing our livestock farmers,” Mr Hurst said.

“Diesel prices have increased by more than a dollar a litre in a matter of weeks, and fertiliser costs have surged dramatically.

“Two years ago, farmers were paying around $600 a tonne for fertiliser. Today, that figure is closer to $1,500 a tonne. There is no way producers can absorb that increase entirely.”

State Liberal Leader Ashton Hurn said the State Government must act urgently to support farmers by expanding access to its $200 million Drought Loan Scheme.

“It’s as simple as changing the eligibility criteria so that farmers can access the support regardless of where they live in South Australia,” Mrs Hurn said.

“That would help farmers manage cost pressures and ease the burden on South Australian families already feeling the pinch at the checkout.

“If this continues, the consequences won’t stop at the farm gate – they will flow through to food prices and impact every South Australian household.”

Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Nicola Centofanti said both state and federal governments must also prioritise long-term food security by ensuring reliable access to fuel.

“Without a guaranteed fuel supply, farmers face significant uncertainty,” Ms Centofanti said.

“At the moment, it’s incredibly difficult to commit to the upfront costs of planting and production.”