MLA's eastern states sheep and lamb indicators have gained ground so far this week, compared with last week's markets.
And the intense demand from buyers is helping to keep levels well above those of last year.
Restocking lambs have jumped 20¢/kg from last week, to 442¢/kg, while Merino lamb was 13¢ dearer at 419¢/kg carcase weight.
Light lamb gained 10¢ to 410¢, while trade lamb lifted 5¢ to 504¢/kg cwt.
Heavy lamb gained 3¢ to settle at 508¢/kg cwt.
Lamb supply at MLA’s NLRS reported markets has lifted 16pc so far this week, when compared with the same time last week.
Dearer prices at last week’s markets appears to have encouraged the lift in supply this week, according to Meat and livestock Australia.
Most producers are choosing to off-load lambs at saleyard markets rather than sell direct to works.
And generally quality has been good, with a number of heavy supplementary fed lambs offered along with a number of plainer lambs.
NSW lamb supply has lifted 24pc, while Victorian lamb numbers rose 4pc as much of the state experienced rain over the weekend. SA lamb availability lifted 9pc and quality in the northern agricultural region was plain.
WA has experienced a 6pc lift in supply as competition between live exporters and processors drive prices to dearer levels.
National sheep supply at MLA’s NLRS reported centers was relatively stable on last week and the general shortage of sheep is helping to keep prices at dearer levels, according to the MLA.
Quality has been very mixed, with the good quality heavy sheep in short supply.
Numbers of rams and wethers suitable for live export fell in WA, and, as a result, live exporters were forced to compete on alternative drafts.
Mutton has strengthened 14¢/kg to finish at 307¢/kg cwt.
