Wool industry facts

• The wool industry in Western Australia (WA) had a gross value of $655 million in 2021/22, 49% of the total contribution of the sheep industry.
• There are 12.4 million sheep and lambs in Western Australia. They are mostly co-located in the cropping regions across southern WA, with some grazing in adjacent rangelands.
• Western Australia produced 61.2 million kilograms of greasy wool in 2021/22. Over 95% is Merino wool measuring less than 24.5 micron, and so destined for apparel. In 2022/23, fine wool of 19.5 micron or less made up 62% of the 'clip' (total amount shorn).
• The entire Western Australian wool clip is exported or transported interstate. Around 90% of the wool exports go to China with India (6%) and the Czech Republic (2%) the next most important destinations on a volume basis (2021/22).
• Our state is internationally cost competitive in wool production, handling and delivery. The local sheep industry maintains world class animal health and welfare standards.

Further detail on exports and production 

Sign up to Sheep Notes