In a decisive move to prioritize animal welfare, Australia has set its sights on banning live sheep exports by sea from May 2028, quelling years of contention surrounding the practice. The decision, hailed by advocates for its humane implications, signifies a significant shift in agricultural policy.
Agriculture Minister Murray Watt underscored the government’s commitment to providing clarity to sheep producers and the supply chain by enshrining the ban into law. “We are giving certainty to sheep producers and the supply chain by legislating the date,” Watt affirmed in a statement issued on Saturday.
This proclamation, originating from the Labor government, aims to fulfill a longstanding promise to phase out the controversial trade. Despite resistance from agricultural factions concerned about the economic repercussions, Watt emphasized the provision of a substantial transition package totaling A$107 million over five years to support affected individuals, including sheep farmers.
“We are putting support on the table now so that people can start planning and acting now,” Watt articulated, emphasizing the proactive approach of the agricultural sector.
However, the announcement has triggered dismay among farming circles, with the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) expressing shock at the accelerated timeline for the phase-out. NFF CEO Tony Mahar lamented, “Murray Watt has decided to book us on the express train to disaster,” reflecting the apprehensions within the farming community regarding the abruptness of the decision.
The ban, while targeting live sheep exports by sea, does not extend to other livestock export industries or live sheep exports by air. Australia’s live sheep trade, predominantly rooted in Western Australia, has witnessed a gradual decline in recent years, with last year’s exports amounting to 684,000 sheep, valued at approximately $50 million.
The primary export destinations, including Kuwait, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates, have long been the focus of scrutiny by animal rights groups advocating for stricter welfare standards. Public outcry over incidents such as the death of 2,400 sheep from heat stress in 2018 has galvanized efforts to overhaul the industry’s practices.
A recent incident involving a stranded ship carrying thousands of sheep and cattle further intensified calls for reform, amplifying concerns regarding the welfare of animals subjected to long sea voyages in adverse conditions.
With the impending ban on live sheep exports by sea, Australia embarks on a new chapter, characterized by a renewed emphasis on ethical considerations and animal welfare standards, reshaping the landscape of its agricultural industry.
