Tasmanian farmers the most confident in the nation

Tasmania’s farmers have retained their crown of being Australia’s most confident and optimistic.

According to the Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey for Q3 2025, Tasmania's net rural confidence index is 34 per cent – the best of any state or territory.

It is a 23 per cent increase from the previous quarter and Tasmania’s confidence index has consistently risen over the last year.

Of the Tasmanian farmers surveyed by Rabobank, 42 per cent believed that agricultural conditions would continue to improve over the next 12 months and two-thirds believed commodity prices would rise.

However, nearly half were concerned about the potential for higher input costs and around a quarter of farmers were still mindful of the ongoing impact of drought on the agricultural sector.

Rabobank area manager for Tasmania, Stuart Whatling, said improved seasonal conditions leading into spring - paired with key commodity prices holding steady - had been driving confidence.

But the survey results indicated variation in the outlook by region and commodity, specifically regarding rainfall.

“Although September delivered above-average rainfall for western Tasmania, it was below average in the state’s east,” Mr Whatling said.

“This translates to beef producers having the highest confidence levels across all sectors in the state this quarter, following beneficial spring conditions for many producers across the beef-dominant north-west of the state.

“Conversely, parts of the south-east – from Ross to Oatlands and further south – had a patchy start to spring, which has dampened confidence among sheep producers who missed out on rainfall.

“These areas may continue to feel pressure moving through spring and into summer.”

Mr Whatling said record red meat prices had contributed to the optimism.

“Strong red meat prices remain a major driver of sentiment, but most producers are cautious about whether these highs can be maintained,” he said.

“We expect some settling over the coming 12 months, as supply balances catch up.”

With apparent optimism, balanced with realistic expectations, Mr Whating said it was a positive time for Tasmanian farmers.

“The combination of improved seasonal signals, strong commodity markets and resilient farm businesses supports confidence, although Tasmanian farmers remain very aware of cost pressures and how the season will shape up moving into summer.”