Phase out of live sheep exports by sea

Supply Chain Capacity Program (Round 2) for producers and processors is now open, with applications closing 24 April 2026.

For more information, visit the WA DPIRD webpage.

The Australian Parliament has passed laws to end live sheep exports by sea from 1 May 2028. The department will continue to regulate the export of live sheep by sea during the transition to ensure compliance with all requirements, including animal welfare.

The assistance package of almost $140 million is designed to help sheep producers, supply chain businesses and communities to make decisions on when and how they will transition away from the live sheep export by sea trade, based on their own individual circumstances.

A range of programs co-designed with industry are now underway, providing assistance to those affected now and enhancing producer and supply chain confidence and profitability into the future.