Over the past year, Australians have been struggling to find eggs on supermarket shelves. A combination of bird flu outbreaks, high seasonal demand, and the transition away from caged eggs has led to an ongoing shortage. As prices continue to rise, more people are turning to backyard chicken-keeping as a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Why Is There an Egg Shortage in Australia?
Several factors have contributed to the ongoing egg supply issues:
1. Bird Flu Outbreaks and Mass Culling
In mid-2024, multiple strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, were detected on 16 poultry farms across Victoria, New South Wales, and the ACT. In response, the Australian government enforced strict biosecurity measures, leading to the culling of an estimated 1.8 million chickens. This significantly reduced the number of laying hens and, consequently, the total egg production.
2. Seasonal Demand and Supply Chain Struggles
Eggs are a staple in many Australian households, and demand tends to peak during festive seasons, holidays, and even the back-to-school period. With fewer hens available to meet demand, supermarket shelves have remained bare in many areas.
3. The Phase-Out of Caged Eggs
Australia has been gradually moving away from caged egg production in response to animal welfare concerns. By 2036, all caged egg production will be phased out, with many farms already transitioning to barn-laid or free-range systems. However, these systems require new infrastructure, additional space, and higher production costs, all of which have slowed down supply. Major supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths initially planned to phase out caged eggs by 2025, but this deadline has now been extended.
4. Rising Egg Prices
With reduced supply and increased production costs, the price of eggs has soared. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, egg prices rose by 11.2% in the last quarter of 2024, making them one of the most expensive food staples in the country.
Backyard Chickens: A Sustainable Solution
In response to the shortage and rising costs, many Australians are reconsidering an old tradition, raising their own chickens. Keeping backyard chickens is becoming more popular as households seek a reliable source of fresh, affordable eggs.
Benefits of Keeping Backyard Chickens
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Fresh, Organic Eggs at Home – No more supermarket shortages! You’ll have a steady supply of fresh, chemical-free eggs.
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Cost Savings in the Long Run – While there’s an initial investment in setting up a coop and buying chickens, the long-term savings on eggs can be significant.
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Reduced Food Waste – Chickens eat kitchen scraps, turning leftovers into nutritious eggs while reducing landfill waste.
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Sustainable and Ethical Farming – Free-range backyard chickens live a healthier, happier life compared to factory-farmed hens.
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Fun and Educational – Raising chickens can be a rewarding experience for families, teaching kids about sustainability and animal care.
What You Need to Start Raising Chickens
Thinking of starting your own backyard flock? Here’s what you’ll need:
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A Secure Chicken Coop – Protects hens from weather and predators. Ensure it’s spacious, well-ventilated, and easy to clean.
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Quality Chicken Feed – A balanced diet of grains, pellets, and fresh greens will keep your hens healthy and productive.
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Fresh Water Supply – Chickens need clean water daily to stay hydrated
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Poultry Bedding - Placed on the floor of their coop to keep their home cosy and comfortable
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Nesting Boxes – Comfortable nesting areas encourage hens to lay eggs consistently.
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A Local Council Check – Some areas have regulations on backyard poultry, so check your local council’s guidelines before getting started.
Find Everything You Need at Woonona Petfoods
At Woonona Petfoods, we stock everything you need to raise happy, healthy backyard chickens! From high-quality feed to coops, supplements, and accessories, we’ve got you covered. Whether you're a first-time chicken owner or an experienced poultry keeper, we’re here to help.
Visit our store today and take the first step toward fresh, homegrown eggs!
