The Australian wool market has started the new 2025/26 wool selling season this week, behaving in a similar fashion what has transpired over recent months - smaller than normal offerings and currency the largest driver on market movements.
The opening sale of the season is traditionally one of the larger sales on the program, as this is the first opportunity for sellers wanting to offer in the new financial year.
This year that was not the case. There were 27,716 bales on offer, the smallest opening sale of the season since AWEX records began (1997). This was 6,525 bales less than last season’s opening, a reduction of 19.1 per cent.
The small offering received strong support across multiple buying houses; however, currency was expected to play a large part after the US dollar (USD) hit historic lows during the week. Considering the currency fluctuations the market held up remarkably well.
In the merino sector results were mixed. A buying squeeze of wool broader than 20.5 micron resulted in spirited bidding on these types, pushing prices higher for the week.
The movements in the merino fleece Micron Price Guides (MPGs) ranged between positive 16 cents and negative 30 cents. Wool finer than 17.5 micron was also selling well.
The crossbred sector has again been the leading light, adding further price increases to those recorded over the previous few months. The crossbred MPGs gained between 16 and 25 cents.
These gains combined with a generally unchanged skirting market and a stronger carding market played a large role in the one cent rise in the benchmark Eastern Market Indicator (EMI). The EMI closed at 1,208 cents. Viewed in US terms the news was more favourable, the EMI added 11 US cents for the series.
Next week is expected to of a similar size.There are currently 29,015 bales on offer in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.
Table showing wool prices to 3 July 2025
Graph showing Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) to 3 July 2025
For full details of auction sales, download the reports below.
The information contained in this article is given for the purpose of providing general information only, and while Elders has exercised reasonable care, skill and diligence in its preparation, many factors (including environmental and seasonal) can impact its accuracy and currency. Accordingly, the information should not be relied upon under any circumstances and Elders assumes no liability for any loss consequently suffered. If you would like to speak to someone for tailored advice relating to any of the matters referred to in this article, please contact Elders.