Putting a price on beef's future

Putting a price on beef's future - why levy reform is essential for Australian cattle producers

Friday 24 October 2025

12:00 for 12:30pm

Australia’s multi-billion cattle industry stands at a crossroads. While there’s rising demand for beef at home and abroad, new trade barriers are emerging - including tariffs in the US and environmental regulations in the EU. There's also the ever-present risk of biosecurity incursions bringing new pests, diseases and weeds into our farming systems. This leaves the industry both nervous and optimistic.

Cattle Australia, the peak body representing Australia’s 52,000 cattle producers, is leading a review of the $5 per head cattle transaction levy that funds research, marketing and biosecurity programs.

Will levy reform deliver greater competitiveness for the industry? And what will it cost to fund the programs needed to continue the industry’s growth and sustainability?

Will Evans is the Chief Executive Officer of Cattle Australia, and our October lunch speaker.

Will brings to his role extensive leadership, advocacy and policy experience. Prior to joining Cattle Australia in July 2025, he held the role of CEO of the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association, and before that industry positions in the areas of policy development with the former Cattle Council of Australia and the Northern Territory Livestock Exporters' Association.

Bookings for this lunch will close on 20 October 2025. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

For any questions, contact bookings@nswfarmwriters.org.au