A DISCUSSION paper outlining policy options for sheep exports to, or through, the Middle East during the northern summer months is now available for stakeholder comment.
In 2017–18 Australia exported around 2m live sheep valued at over $259m to trading partners.
Minister for agriculture, Bridget McKenzie, said, “The export from Australia of live sheep shipped to, and through, the Middle East resumed on September 23 of this year after the Department of Agriculture prohibited these exports during the northern summer”.
Feedback on the discussion paper will inform a regulation impact statement, which will determine the future regulation of live sheep exports to, or through, the Middle East during the northern summer months from 2020 onwards.
“The discussion paper outlines four proposed policy option ideas,” Ms McKenzie said.
“We are seeking input from stakeholders on the potential economic and regulatory impact of each idea but also welcome alternative options.
“I urge anyone who has a stake in Australia’s live sheep export industry to jump online and have their say on the discussion paper.”
The discussion paper is available for comment online until October 28 at: haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au
