The answer is quite simple, it's called costs.
rehchtub,
I'm more inclined to think of it as rip-off & extortion payments to those who don't lift a finger in any of it. Bureaucracy comes to mind.

rehctub,
It is the union driven high wages paid to workers.
The unions stuff everything.
Personally I think nothing should leave Australia until and unless the local market is satisfied.
You might get a decent piece of meat on your plate then.

Actually Cris, the blame also lies with the consumer, as we are often guilty of not buying a particular product/s when the prices are high.

579, most chickens are the same age. It's just that some eat more than others.

Yes that is true. I know the cost would be much higher if got same meat from a butcher.

And there is the employment aspect.