Baiada Poultry builds new broiler plant in Tamworth, Australia

AUSTRALIA – Baiada Poultry says construction of its new broiler processing facility, first announced nearly 12 months ago, in Tamworth, New South Wales, is progressing on time, with operations expected to begin in 2026.

The company confirmed through an update this week that the site is scheduled to be completed by April of that year.

The plant is expected to handle up to 3 million chickens every week once fully operational, according to the company.

Baiada stated the plant would incorporate updated poultry processing technology and equipment not currently standard across the industry in Australia.

The facility is also designed to include staff amenities such as a cafeteria, gym, outdoor rest areas, and other features aimed at improving work conditions.

When plans were initially made public, Baiada said more than 700 roles would be created at the new site.

In addition to processing capacity and employment, the company highlighted environmental features planned for the facility.

Baiada noted that the wastewater treatment system will capture biogas, which will be used to power boilers at the site.

The company estimates that this system will supply around 70% of the facility’s natural gas needs through renewable sources.

The Tamworth site is part of Baiada’s broader investment in poultry operations across Australia.

Data from WATTPoultry.com indicates that Baiada Poultry processed 208 million broilers over the past year, ranking it second in Oceania by output.

The company is also active in turkey production, with operations extending across multiple segments of the poultry supply chain.

Baiada Group acquires Wasleys Feed Mill from Ridley for US$14M

In another development, Baiada Group has agreed to purchase the Wasleys feed mill in South Australia from Ridley Corporation Ltd. for AUD22 million (US$14 million), with the deal expected to close by June 30.

The acquisition aligns with Baiada’s ongoing expansion strategy in South Australia and marks a strategic move to bring feed production in-house.

The Wasleys facility, which has been supplying over 90% of its output to Baiada, recorded AUD3.5 million (US$2.24 million) in EBITDA over the past year.

“We understand Baiada’s desire to own the feed mill as part of their expansion plans in South Australia, and Ridley looks forward to ongoing supply arrangements with Baiada in other regions,” said Quinton Hildebrand, Ridley Managing Director and CEO. 

Privately owned and fully integrated, Baiada Poultry operates broiler and breeder farms, hatcheries, feed mills, and processing facilities. 

With approximately 2,200 employees and a strong presence in Australia’s poultry sector, where chicken consumption exceeds 50 kilograms per person annually, Baiada remains committed to sustainable growth and national food security.

Ridley, one of Australia’s leading animal nutrition providers, noted that the sale will help bolster its balance sheet and fund future growth initiatives.

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