Australia Cheese Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Australia Cheese Market Outlook

The Australia Cheese market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.80% between 2024 and 2032.  

Key Takeaways

• Australia, home to 25.7 million people, with a fairly even split between men and women. The population includes 4.8 million individuals under 14 years old and 16.5 million aged between 15 and 64. 

• The majority, 22.1 million, reside in urban areas, while 3.6 million live in rural regions. In 2021, the nation boasted a robust GDP of USD 1.54 trillion, accompanied by a manageable inflation rate of 2.9%, resulting in a per capita income of USD 59,934.1. 

• The Australian cheese market is flourishing, driven by rising per capita consumption, reaching an average volume of 13.34 kg per person in 2021. Looking ahead, cheese prices in 2022 are expected to range between USD 4.16 and USD 4.34 per kilogram.

Cheese is a versatile food that has long been a dietary staple, offering both flavour and essential nutrients. The market landscape is rich and varied, with over 160 types available, including popular varieties like Cheddar, Brie, Mozzarella, Blue, Parmesan, and Goat cheese. Not only does cheese enhance a wide range of dishes, from lasagna to toasties, but it also provides vital minerals such as protein, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, riboflavin, phosphorus, and zinc. Remarkably, cheese ranks as the second most important source of calcium in the Australian diet, addressing the significant shortfall in calcium intake observed in half of the population.

The cheese market in Australia is experiencing growth propelled by several factors. Rising health consciousness among consumers and a preference for dairy products are driving demand, particularly in the restaurant and food service sectors. Notably, developing regions are witnessing higher growth rates due to increased disposable incomes and the proliferation of fast-food outlets. Additionally, advancements in food processing have led to the introduction of plant-based and organic cheese varieties, catering to evolving consumer preferences for healthier options.

Furthermore, the market is witnessing innovative trends, including the rise of dairy-free processed cheeses, appealing to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Probiotic cheese is also gaining popularity, driven by increasing consumer interest in immune support, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of distribution, supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate Australia cheese market development, offering consumers convenience and a diverse selection. Major players in this sector include Coles, Woolworths, ALDI, Costco, and others. Moreover, the advent of e-commerce has facilitated the purchase of gourmet cheese products, reflecting a broader trend towards online shopping and convenience-driven consumption patterns.

Overall, the Australian cheese industry is expected to witness continued growth, fuelled by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and changing market dynamics.

Market Segmentation

Australia Cheese Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type:

• Natural Cheese

• Processed Cheese

Market Breakup by Product:

• Cheddar Cheese

• Semi Hard Cheese

• Hard Grating Cheese

• Fresh Cheese

• Mould Ripened

• Others

Market Breakup by End Use:

• Retail

• Institutional

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

• Convenience Stores

• Online Channels

• Others

Market Breakup by Region:

• South Wales

• Victoria

• Queensland

• Western Australia

• Australian Capital Territory

• Others

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the cheese in Australia produce products aiding the end-users for consumption and distribution.

• Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited  

• Bega Cheese Limited  

• Saputo Dairy Australia Pty Ltd. 

• Alexandrina Cheese Company 

• Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd. 

• Arla Food Mayer Australia Pty Ltd. 

• Ashgrove Cheese Pty Ltd.

• Awassi Farm & Cheesery

Key Highlights of the Report