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Background:
- Today the Federal Government announced its phase out plan for Australia’s live sheep export trade, including an end date of 1 May 2028.
- They have also released the expert panel report that advised them on the phase out.
- The Government is committing to phase out live sheep exports by 1 May 2028 and will introduce and pass legislation this term of Parliament.
- For decades HSI Australia has campaigned for an end to live sheep exports, by lobbying the government, submitting to parliamentary inquiries, joining forces with various other animal welfare organisations, and amplifying the calls of the majority of Australians.
Quotes attributable to Ms Georgie Dolphin, Animal Welfare Campaigner at HSI Australia:
“We welcome today’s announcement and are pleased the Albanese Government is standing strong on their commitment to phase-out live sheep exports by sea, following the recommendations of the Independent Panel to transition towards chilled meat exports.
“It is also good to see that the transition plan is supported by a $107 million funding package and a legislative timeline to ensure it is passed within this term of Parliament, offering certainty and support to those impacted.
“This decision will be applauded by millions of Australians who have long called for an end to cruel live sheep exports, an unfixable trade that jeopardizes the welfare of a huge number of animals. There is indisputable scientific evidence that shows transporting sheep by sea does not align with the most basic principles of animal welfare, exposing them to unnecessary risks and suffering.
“Australia has sent more than 170 million sheep overseas since the live export trade began 60 years ago, equating to nearly 8,000 sheep a day. Every year the trade continues, thousands of sheep will suffer. A plan to wrap up the trade sooner would have helped prevent more suffering, but today’s announcement shows the government is standing strong on their election promises.
“Heat stress, inhumane slaughter and high stocking densities are synonymous with the live sheep export industry, which has lost its social license. Today’s phase out announcement is a long-awaited milestone supported by the majority of Australians.”
ENDS
Media contact: Hannah Clayton | 0434 269 048 | hclayton@hsi.org.au
Humane Society International (HSI) is the world’s largest animal protection organisation and HSI Australia established our office in 1994. We work to create a humane and sustainable world for animals advocating across wildlife conservation and animal welfare policy areas.
