Performance, Data & Insights 2017

NSW boasts an abundant and diverse range of primary industries. The ability to quantify, monitor and compare the total annual value of production at the state level can be measured through the Gross Value Production (GVP).

Annually, GVP is measured as a unit volume of each commodity produced by the respective commodity
unit price achieved at the “farm gate” or in the wholesale market.

In NSW, 2016-2017 was a record-breaking year for the value of NSW Primary Industries, reaching an estimated A$15.4 billion, representing an increase of 32.4% on the 2013-14 GVP level. Industry performance was determined by several key factors including the price received, productive output, the macroeconomic environment, and seasonal conditions.

The latter seasonal conditions was highlighted by above average rainfall from July through to November which secured livestock feed, helped finish winter crops and increased stored moisture levels into the warmer months.

Record grain production across the state initially had grain storage facilities bulging; excellent export demand ensured that prices to producers remained steady, despite stagnant global prices. Valued at an estimated $6.8 billion, NSW crop production was underpinned by a record wheat harvest, while cotton, pulses, barley and oilseeds all made large contributions to the states output.