Delivering more transition assistance for the phase out of live sheep

The Albanese Labor Government is continuing to assist sheep farmers, livestock transport operators and regional communities through the phase out of live sheep exports by sea, with further funding opening this month for two transition programs.

The programs form part of the Government’s almost $140 million transition assistance package, designed to help individuals, businesses and communities confidently plan and adapt ahead of the end of live sheep exports by sea from 1 May 2028.

Round 2 of the Livestock Transport Industry Transition Program will open from today to 13 July 2026, while Round 2 of the Farm Business Transition Program will open from Tuesday 19 May to 15 July 2026.

The Livestock Transport Industry Transition Program assists livestock transport operators to diversify and transition into other transport-related activities ahead of the phase out of the trade.

A total of $1.5 million will be available across both rounds of the program, with grants of up to $40,000 (GST exclusive) available to operators to support transition activities.

More than $690,000 was awarded to 20 livestock transport operators through round one of this program announced earlier this year.

The Farm Business Transition Program assists sheep producers to adopt alternative farming systems and practices that strengthen long-term business resilience, sustainability and profitability.

The program will provide a total of $30 million across both rounds, with grants of up to $75,000 (GST exclusive) available per eligible applicant.

Funding is available for tailored business planning and a range of eligible activities, including infrastructure upgrades, equipment purchases, workforce training, innovation adoption and alternative management practices.

More than $10 million was awarded to 180 producers to support implementation activities through round one of this program.

Applicants for both programs must provide a dollar-for-dollar cash co-contribution and demonstrate they have actively participated in the live sheep export trade since 1 July 2020.

Sheep producers who have applied for funding under the Supply Chain Capacity Program may also be eligible to apply for the Farm Business Transition Program, subject to the eligibility requirements outlined in the Grant Opportunity Guidelines.

Further information on both programs is available on the Department’s website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP:

“The Albanese Labor Government is committed to ensuring sheep producers, transport operators and regional communities can confidently plan for the future.

“Through the transition assistance package we are continuing to work closely with industry to deliver practical, targeted support that helps farmers and businesses.

“These programs are helping businesses through the phase out of live sheep exports by sea with investments that strengthen resilience, improve productivity and create new opportunities.”