Live export boom drives NT economic growth
The Northern Territory’s live cattle export industry has achieved its strongest performance in over a decade, underscoring the sector’s critical role in driving economic recovery and growth - a result made possible through the strong working relationship between the NT Government and the livestock industry.
Live cattle exports from Darwin Port reached their highest level in 10 years, with 447,620 head exported - an 18% increase on the previous year. Of these, 313,984 were Territory produced.
The Northern Territory continues to play a vital role in Australia’s cattle industry, with 40% of the nation’s live cattle exports originating from the Territory and shipped through Darwin Port.
Darwin Port continues to cement its position as Australia’s live export gateway, recording a 23.5% increase in overall trade last financial year, with cattle exports a key contributor to this uplift.
Buffalo exports also recorded significant growth, rising 57% to 7,284 head, the highest level in three years.
Indonesia remains the Territory’s primary live export market, receiving more than 90% of cattle exported through Darwin Port. The Indonesian Government has signalled strong interest in expanding live cattle imports to support national food security initiatives, including its Nutritious Meals Program.
To support this growing demand, Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the Hon. Gerard Maley MLA led a delegation of pastoral industry representatives and government officials to Indonesia in October last year. The visit focused on strengthening long‑standing trade relationships, identifying new opportunities, and ensuring the Territory remains a preferred supplier in the live cattle trade.
The Indonesian Ambassador, His Excellency Dr Siswo Pramono led a delegation of senior officials from Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture to the Northern Territory in December, further deepening cooperation and strengthening agricultural trade ties between our regions.
The NT Government continues to work closely with the pastoral industry and international trading partners to expand market access and increase export volumes for NT cattle.
Cattle prices remained strong throughout 2025, with feeder cattle finishing the year at $4.55/kg, up from an opening price of $3.55/kg. Combined with rising export volumes and increasing demand from neighbouring countries, the Northern Territory’s pastoral sector is well positioned for continued expansion.
This success reflects the strong working relationships between producers, exporters, and supply chain partners, whose commitment and cooperation have been essential to achieving these outstanding results. Industry growth is creating jobs, attracting investment, and unlocking economic opportunities across regional and remote communities.
