As part of its commitment to representing Australia’s sheep industry, Sheep Producers Australia (SPA) will be participating in the upcoming co-design process for the Federal Government’s live sheep exports transition support package says SPA CEO Bonnie Skinner.

“SPA’s role is to advocate for farmers during this unwanted and unjustified transition caused by the Government’s legislated ban on live sheep exports by sea,” Ms Skinner said.

“We remain committed to continuing to provide advice to government that is wholly

focused on the overall good of the industry and our members."

“Sheep Producers Australia does, however, remain highly sceptical of the Federal Government’s co-design consultation's ability to deliver genuine assistance to affected

producers."

“Sheep Producers Australia has consistently highlighted that consultation on the implementation of this policy has left many producers feeling removed from a process that is impacting their families, businesses, and communities."

“The government has already demonstrated in its establishment of the ‘Transition

Advocate’ role last year that it wouldn’t listen to industry input. SPA provided advice during

the design of that role, but that advice was largely ignored."

“We were clear there should be a taskforce comprising of individuals who have a trusted

presence in the WA agriculture and rural industries and communities and who can

understand the interests and viewpoints of all stakeholders."

“The Transition Advocate role, as it has been advertised though, is focused on

communication about the transition, rather than directly supporting farmers and facilitating two-way engagement to ensure the government fulfils its obligation to listen to and support industry."

“The sheepmeat industry – particularly sheep producers in Western Australia – understand

their needs better than anyone. Any future co-design process must be genuinely focused on the people most impacted by the policy. "

“Ultimately, Sheep Producers Australia wants to see this ban overturned. But if it cannot be

stopped, our producers, their businesses and their communities must receive support."

“At this early stage of the co-design process, the government must make a genuine

commitment to listening to and addressing the needs of the producers who are being forced to adapt to the illogical and unnecessary legislated ban of a critical and valued live export supply chain."

“The Federal Government cannot continue to disregard the voices of farmers and rural

communities as it has to date on this issue.”