Australian Crop Report: March edition
Winter crop production in Western Australia is estimated to have reached a record 23.1 million tonnes in 2021–22. This is 52% higher than the 10-year average to 2020–21 and 30% higher than the previous record. The record harvest reflects an estimated record area planted to winter crops, an excellent start to the winter cropping season, sufficient soil moisture levels and favourable seasonal conditions in most regions.
Favourable timing of rainfall events and mild spring conditions resulted in record high winter crop yields. Cooler temperatures in spring allowed crops to fill grain slowly, further lifting yield potential. This has led to below average protein levels recorded, with a higher than usual share of wheat making the ASW grade.
Widespread frosts caused significant damage to some crops, however, subsequent rainfall and cooler conditions allowed crops to recover in some affected regions. Average yields were still excellent and higher yields in other areas more than offset any downgrades caused by frost damage.
| Crop | Area '000 ha |
Yield t/ha |
Production kt |
Area change % |
Prod. change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat | 4,900 | 2.61 | 12,800 | 3 | 35 |
| Barley | 1,600 | 3.44 | 5,500 | 0 | 25 |
| Canola | 1,550 | 2.03 | 3,150 | 35 | 91 |
| Lupins | 350 | 2.14 | 750 | 0 | 36 |
Note: Yields are based on area planted. Area based on planted crop that is harvested, fed off or failed. Percent changes are relative to last year.
Sources: ABARES