Australia's chicken meat industry is the nation's fastest-growing livestock sector, contributing $8 billion to the economy, according to the newly released Economic Contribution of the Australian Chicken Meat Industry report.
Commissioned by the AgriFutures Chicken Meat Program, in partnership with the Australian Chicken Meat Federation (ACMF), the report confirms that employment in the chicken meat industry continues to rise, with tens of thousands of new roles created across farms, processing facilities and regional communities. Since the last economic modelling, the industry's value has surged by an estimated 21% - averaging 3.9% growth annually - while employment has climbed 34%, or around 6% each year. It also highlights the industry's steady growth despite challenges such as drought, COVID-19 and rising input costs.
From FY18 to FY24, the gross production value of chicken meat increased 23%, from $3.29 billion to $4.06 billion, representing a compound average growth rate of 3.3%.
The new data confirms that Australia's chicken meat industry is vital to both local and national economies, continuing to deliver value, jobs and innovation, and underpinning food security and the long-term sustainability of regional communities.
The industry generated significant economic activity in regional areas such as the Riverina region of Southern NSW, where the sector contributed $161 million in direct economic contribution and boosted employment across the region. Other key regional centres, including Bendigo (VIC) and Logan-Beaudesert (QLD), similarly benefited from robust local supply chains and employment opportunities. At a state level, South Australia, including the Port Wakefield region, generated significant economic contribution with $240 million in value added as well as supporting over 1,800 full time jobs.
Samantha Beresford, General Manager of Levied and Emerging Industries at AgriFutures Australia, said the findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry and regional stakeholders.
"Access to credible, relevant data helps industry and government work together to plan for the future - from infrastructure and workforce development to sustainability and innovation," Ms Beresford said.
"This report is a clear example of how strong data supports smart decisions. It reinforces AgriFutures' focus on investing in people, learning and innovation to build a sustainable, high-performing agricultural future."
"As well as the chicken meat industry being a major contributor to the Australian economy, it stands alone as AgriFutures' largest levied industry and research like this showcases the strength of partnerships and collective investment that will benefit levy payers, consumers and regional communities alike."
With Australians expected to consume more than 55 kilograms of chicken per person each year by 2026 - reinforcing its position as the nation's favourite protein - the industry's focus on innovation and efficiency ensures families continue to have access to a reliable and affordable source of protein.
The report highlights how efficient protein production can meet this growing consumer demand while minimising environmental impact, aligning with Australia's broader sustainability and food system goals.
Chicken meat is leading the charge, being recognised as the most environmentally sustainable land-based protein. Life-cycle analysis confirms commercial chicken meat production uses far less land than other animal proteins, making it a smart choice for a growing population.
The industry also delivers strong environmental benefits through waste minimisation. Around 30% of a chicken's mass - including bones, feathers and intestines - is upcycled into products like high-protein pet food. This clever reuse slashes waste and reduces the need for extra protein sources, boosting resource efficiency across the entire sector.
Key highlights
- The Australian chicken meat industry contributes $8 billion to the economy, an increase of an estimated 21% since previous economic modelling.
- The industry continues to drive strong employment growth, with a 34% increase since the last economic modelling.
- The gross production value grew by 23% between FY18 and FY24, from $3.29 billion to $4.06 billion.
- The sector continues to drive regional economic activity, with major contributions in the Riverina (NSW), Bendigo (VIC) and Logan-Beaudesert (QLD) regions.
- Continuous innovation and investment have driven sustained growth, operational efficiency and resilience.
Australia's chicken meat industry continues to deliver value, jobs and innovation, underpinning food security and supporting the long-term sustainability of regional communities.
