The Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party (SFF) has pushed for an inquiry into the impact of the live export ban on NSW farmers. Their goal is to reverse the ban on live sheep export, which poses a significant threat to the years of progress we’ve made in animal welfare. The outcome of this inquiry is expected to have little impact on farmers' livelihoods, contrary to what is being suggested. 

Our MP Emma Hurst will serve as the deputy chair of this inquiry, but unlike our previous inquiries, this one is not in our favour. Emma, along with others, has opposed this inquiry, which is largely driven by the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party.

We’ve fought long and hard for this historic win for sheep and animal welfare.

It MUST stay.

This inquiry threatens to undo years of progress, not just for sheep but also for other animals like cattle who endure the cruelty of live export. We can’t afford to go back. The live sheep export ban is a significant step forward for animal rights and their welfare, setting a global example and encouraging other countries to reconsider and phase out similar practices.

We must speak out once again. Don’t let the ban on live sheep export be overturned!

Below, you'll find guidance on how to address key animal welfare concerns in your responses. Remember, writing in your own words, sharing your personal experiences and showing concern will have greater impact.

📆 Submissions close: 20th September 2024

How to make a submission

Submissions can be made as an individual or on behalf of an organisation.

You can either:

• Attach Submission (File attachments cannot be greater than 50MB)
• Or Compose submission (Write / paste into the provided text box)

Make your submission

Be prepared to include the following details:

• Name
• Address
• Contact

However, you can choose whether you would like your name and/or submission made public.

There is also a questionnaire that can be completed rather than make a submission.

Submission Guide - Your voice is needed 📢

Your voice is powerful! Your submission can help shape the future of animal welfare and ensure the ban on live sheep export remains in place.

We've put together some responses and points for you to consider when drafting your submission. Whether you have a little time or a lot, every submission counts. 

Points to consider when writing your submission

• Animals endure severe suffering during long, stressful sea voyages.
• Ship accidents can result in the drowning of animals and loss of human life.
• Consumers increasingly demand humane treatment of animals.
• Long journeys expose animals to extreme heat, dehydration and illness.
• Consistent animal welfare standards across borders are hard to maintain.
• Banning live exports can improve a nation's ethical reputation.
• Live export harms the environment and contributes to carbon emissions.
• Cruel practices, such as rough handling are common.
• Animals are often subjected to extreme conditions and cruel practices in foreign countries.
• Sheep suffer from heat stress, leading to severe health issues or death.
• Ships are not cleaned during voyages, creating unsanitary and harmful conditions.

View the: Terms of Reference

There are several important terms of reference related to animal welfare that you can address in your submission. These points focus on various aspects of the industry’s impact on sheep live export and are crucial for emphasising the need to keep the ban in place.

(g) examine animal welfare concerns relevant to the determination to cease live sheep export by sea by the Federal Government 

(i) examine proven alternative markets and opportunities for New South Wales sheep producers 

(l) identify case studies of graziers in other regions or countries that have successfully transitioned from live exports

Example responses

When drafting your response, personalise it as much as possible—share your thoughts, experiences and concerns in your own words.

This approach will not only resonate more deeply with those reviewing the inquiry but will also reflect the genuine care and commitment we all share for the welfare of animals.

1. Animal Welfare Concerns Related to Live Export

• Highlight the inherent stress and suffering animals endure during long sea voyages.
• Mention the risks of overcrowding and lack of proper care during transport.

Example Response: "Live export subjects sheep to prolonged stress and discomfort, with little to no relief during long sea journeys. The risks of heat stress, overcrowding, and inadequate care are well-documented and remain a significant concern. I urge the committee to prioritise the welfare of these animals by considering the severe impact these conditions have on their health and well-being."

“Animals exported from Australia face extended periods at sea, which increases their exposure to heat stress and other welfare risks. Even with stringent regulatory measures, the long voyages, particularly through tropical regions, pose significant challenges that cannot be fully mitigated.”

Personal Response: "Many in my community are incredibly concerned about the live export practices, particularly how sheep suffer from extreme heat and long journeys. The distress they endure for such extended periods is heart-wrenching. Supporting humane alternatives aligns better with our values and sheep are spared from suffering."

"Having witnessed the stress and suffering that individual sheep endure during live export, I can attest to the trauma it causes. Seeing animals in such distress is deeply troubling and highlights the urgent need for practices that ensure their well-being."

📝 Tip: If you’ve witnessed or are aware of specific incidents related to animal suffering during live export, including these experiences can be powerful.

2. Exploring Alternative Markets

• Discuss alternative models, such as the expansion of chilled and frozen export markets. Talk about how these alternatives can benefit both animal welfare and the economy, supporting a transition for farmers and associated industries.
• Support research into and development of alternative industries that do not rely on animal exploitation. This could include plant-based agriculture, which could offer new economic opportunities for communities.
• Suggest developing lab-grown meat and other animal products as humane alternatives to live export.

Example Response: "To address animal welfare concerns while transitioning from live exports, we should consider advancing the production of lab-grown meat and other animal products. This method not only circumvents the ethical issues associated with live animal transport but also offers a way to meet demand sustainably.

Personal Response: "I’ve researched alternatives like plant-based agriculture and lab-grown meat and found them promising. These methods could offer a more ethical solution to live exports."

📝 Tip: If you have knowledge of successful implementations or advancements in lab-grown meat, including these details can strengthen your response and provide practical examples of how these alternatives can be developed.

3. Case Studies of Successful Transitions from Live Export

• Refer to regions or countries that have phased out live exports and improved animal welfare through alternative practices.
• Discuss how these case studies can serve as models for NSW.

Example Response: "Several regions have successfully phased out live exports by investing in local processing and other humane alternatives. For instance, New Zealand's move to end live exports by sea has been met with positive outcomes for animal welfare and the industry alike. We can learn from these examples and develop strategies that both protect animal welfare and support our farmers."

Personal Response: "Having grown up in a sheep farming family, I've seen firsthand the challenges and welfare issues of live export. Our community takes pride in the transition we've made towards more ethical farming practices. The public has responded gratefully to our shift from purely economic value to a focus on sustainability and animal welfare, ensuring that no suffering is involved in our operations."

📝 Tip: If you have connections to or knowledge of farmers who have transitioned away from live exports, mentioning these can add credibility and relevance to your response.

Timeline of Inquiry:

• ⚠️ Submission close 20th September
• Hearing will be on 22nd November (Macquarie Room, Parliament House, Sydney)

Need help with writing or lodging your submission?

Email us: [email protected]