Parliament has released details of its plan to end live sheep export. 

The Agriculture Committee of the Australian Parliament has released its advisory report on the Export Control Amendment (Ending Live Sheep Exports by Sea) Bill 2024. 

The bill, which aims to end the live sheep export trade by sea by 1 May 2028, seeks to fulfil an Albanese Government election promise.

The committee’s inquiry examined the provisions of the bill, which includes authority for Commonwealth spending to support those impacted by the transition. 

The bill is designed to provide time and financial resources for an orderly shift in the industry.

Meryl Swanson, Chair of the Agriculture Committee, has acknowledged the strong opposition from parts of the industry and local communities in Western Australia but maintained that it is time for change.

“The time has come to transition away from this trade,” she said. 

“Like all transitions, it will not be without pain, but the outcome will provide industry with long-term certainty in line with community expectations.”

The committee's report not only recommends the passing of the bill but also suggests additional measures. 

The Government is advised to consider making further funding available to support the industry's transition, potentially through the 2026 stocktake of industry progress. It also recommends continued collaboration with the Western Australian Government to refine and implement the transition support package.

During the inquiry, the committee conducted two public hearings in Canberra and Muresk, Western Australia. These hearings gathered crucial evidence from various stakeholders, including industry representatives, government officials, local communities, and animal welfare groups. 

The inquiry received over 13,000 submissions from individuals and organisations both supporting and opposing the bill, providing diverse feedback on its provisions.

More details are accessible here.