Phase out of live sheep exports by sea

The Australian Government has committed to phasing out live sheep exports from Australia by sea.

The phase out will not take place during this current term of the Australian Parliament. This will provide time for individuals and businesses to adapt and prepare for a transition away from live sheep exports by sea.

An independent panel has been established to consult with impacted and interested stakeholders. The panel will provide advice on how and when the government will phase out live sheep exports by sea.

We want to hear what the phase out means for you

We are seeking input on:

• how the government should phase out live sheep exports by sea
• the timeframe to implement the phase out
• how the phase out will impact exporters, farmers and other businesses across the supply chain
• support and adjustment options for those impacted by the phase out
• opportunities, including options to expand domestic processing and increase sheep meat exports.

Consultation will not consider the merits or otherwise of the government’s policy to phase out live sheep exports by sea.

The phase out does not apply to other livestock export industries, such as live cattle exports, nor does it apply to live sheep exports by air.

Have Your Say

Your views will help to inform planning for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.

To have your say:

• read the consultation paper
• provide your feedback using our online form.

Submit your feedback by AEST 10 pm, Wednesday 31 May 2023.

You can also register to follow this project for updates by clicking on the ‘Subscribe’ button.

To contact us or request a meeting with the independent panel, please email livesheep.phaseout@agriculture.gov.au