But the gains made by the cropping sector will be slightly offset by livestock exports which are expected to ease, according to the September issue of Australian Commodities, released today by ABARE executive director Phillip Glyde.

The report shows the bulk of the earnings increase will come from mining resources.

However, farm export earnings are forecast to be $30B billion in 2008-09, up from $27.5B in 2007-08.

ABARE says agricultural commodities for which export earnings are forecast to rise in 2008-09 include wheat, barley, canola, pulses, sorghum, sugar and wine.

Crop export earnings are forecast to increase by 24pc, to $16B in 2008-09.

But export earnings from livestock and livestock products are forecast to decline in 2008-09, by 3pc to around $14B.

ABARE says further spring rainfall will be critical to secure forecast production levels.

If seasonal conditions permit, farmers are expected to reduce slaughterings as they commence rebuilding herd and flock numbers.

As a result, exports of livestock and livestock products are forecast to decline.

The value of Australia’s minerals and energy exports is forecast to be around $180B in 2008-09, a rise of 53pc on the previous year.