Wool production set for downturn

A slight downturn of Australian wool production is expected in 2013-14.

The Australian Wool Production Forecasting Committee has forecast a decline to 345 million kilograms of greasy wool, down 1.4 per cent from the 2012-13 season total of 350 million kilograms.

Committee chairman Russell Pattinson said the slight decrease in seasonal production reflected two major factors.

"An increase in sheep turn-off for slaughter in 2012-13, which has reduced season-opening sheep numbers for 2013-14," he said.

"Also an expected reduction in average fleece weight resulting from the dry seasonal conditions that were experienced in many woolgrowing regions in the first half of 2013."

Mr Pattison said results from a recent Meat and Livestock Australia and Australian Wool Innovation production survey indicated grower intent fell back slightly from flock growth, toward maintenance of existing sheep numbers.

"Regionally, declines in 2013-14 wool production are forecast for NSW and Queensland which outweigh expected slight increases in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and WA."