Australian shorn wool production is expected to fall 5.7 per cent this year. The fall reflects an expected reduction in both the number of sheep shorn and average wool cuts per head as a result of the dry seasonal conditions across most of the country.

Adverse seasonal conditions in many sheep producing areas across Australia have resulted in a high turn-off of sheep and lambs. It will also mean lower average fleece weights in several states. How the season progresses over the next couple of months will be very important for overall production levels this season.

There have been 11.3 per cent reductions in weight of wool tested between 19.6 and 24.5 micron while there was an 11.7 per cent increase in weight of wool tested between 16.6 and 19.5 micron as well as over 26.6 micron. Production of 16.5 micron wool fell 10 per cent last season.

The impact of the season can be seen through a ten per cent increase in sheep and lamb turn-off last season compared to 2016-17. Dry seasonal conditions over much of the second half of the season resulted in lower than expected fleece weights in 2017-18. Conditions have worsened in many wool producing regions across Australia.