NSW primary industries reached an estimated Output of $15.9 billion in 2018-19.

The 2018-19 financial year was marked by intense and widespread drought which continues to present serious challenges to our primary producers.

However, the total value of NSW primary industries (excluding the service industries of hunting and recreational fishing) remained strong when considered against prevailing conditions, estimated at $11.9 billion.

The annual value of crop production was seriously affected by the drought, estimated to have declined by 48% to $2.5 billion, driven by a 63% fall in winter crop production and a 56% fall in summer crop production.

These falls in production were partially offset by increases in domestic demand for stockfeed which left little surplus for export and saw average farmgate grain prices rise.

This pattern was repeated across many of the major commodities, with drought-driven decreases in production buffered by increases in farmgate prices, which helped reduce the impact on the value of the primary industries sector as a whole.

The value of the livestock, and livestock product industries, is estimated to have increased 4% to $6.7 billion, driven partially by increased turn-off rates for beef cattle and sheep but also record prices for some commodities.

Farmgate prices for livestock and livestock products rose 7% on average, driven by robust global export demand.

Our $765 million commercial fisheries and forestry sectors also continued to grow and play a vital part in the state’s diverse primary industry sector.

Recreational fishing, including charter fishing, and hunting and game management activities once again performed strongly with a combined estimated expenditure of $4 billion. The value of these critical recreational activities extends beyond their pure economic value and is part of the state’s rich natural resource base which, with diligent management, will be enjoyed by future generations.