Crop and pasture reports

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) publishes regular reports on the condition of crops and pastures in South Australia. The report provides the estimates of the area and the production for each crop and district during the cropping season.

Crop estimates are based on information provided to PIRSA and are updated throughout the season as conditions change and further information becomes available. They provide an indication of crop potential at the time the report is prepared.

Latest report

Summary

• Average to above average rainfall fell through winter for all regions of South Australia, except for the Northen Mallee.
• Subsoil moisture remains average in most areas due to the exceptionally dry preceding summer and autumn.
• The outlook for October to December suggests an increased chance of exceeding median rainfall for most of South Australia.
• Likely crop performance has improved in most regions, with yield potential now being average to slightly above average. The exceptions are the Northern Mallee and eastern areas of the Lower Murray where continued rainfall deficits together with severe sandblasting has repeatedly damaged crops, exposed sandy soils, and led to poor establishment and longer-term erosion concerns.
• Across the state there will be a reliance on spring rainfall to support yield potential, being particularly important as crop development is 2 to 3 weeks later than usual.
• There were no significant pest, disease or weed challenges identified as likely to impact crop health and production, although significant flights of native budworm moths are likely to prompt insecticide applications to protect pulse crops.
• Proactive monitoring of pests and diseases and strategic application of preventive fungicides continues.
• The current estimated grain production for 2025–26 has increased to 8.5 million tonnes.
• Although below the 5-year average, recent favourable winter crop conditions have improved the production outlook when compared to earlier estimates.
• Forward price indications for key commodities wheat, barley and lentils are at a lower level compared to the past 5 years.
• Pasture cover remains lower than average across parts of South Australia after a dry autumn and late break.
• Supplementary and containment feeding is still required in the Northern Mallee.
• Pasture cover in the Southern Murray Mallee, Lower North, Mid North, Upper North and Lower Murray is slowly recovering.

Crop and pasture report dashboard

The PIRSA crop and pasture report dashboard displays crop area and production data, providing a simple source of crop statistical information.

South Australian crop area, production, and yield are searchable by reporting district, crop type, and season.

The data dates from the 1999–2000 season, up to and including the current season.

Crop reporting districts map

Crop estimates for a season are based on the districts defined in the following map.