The falling Australian dollar, together with a favourable season in Queensland and northern NSW, is helping to hold livestock markets at high levels for this time of year, according to Meat and Livestock Australia.
MLA reports that saleyard export grade cattle prices rose this week, led by Japan ox in Queensland and NSW.
It is likely to take some time for the latest dramatic falls in the A$ - if sustained - to flow through to cattle prices, as some import buyers are delaying purchases until the falls cease and dear product on the water or in stock is cleared.
In contrast, MLA says cattle prices fell across Victoria and SA, with a deteriorating season, easing restock demand and high turnoff.
Young cattle prices also eased, as is usual for this time of year, with the EYCI down over 6ยข/kg (carcase weight).
Lamb prices were generally stronger, led by light and restocker categories, with total yardings down 15pc.
Lamb prices are now 40-60pc higher than a year ago, reflecting lower supplies and stronger restocker, feeder and export demand (assisted by the falling A$).
While a further seasonal decline in NSW led sheep prices lower, the national indicator is still around 40pc higher than last year, assisted by the lower A$ and strong Middle East demand.
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