Delivering assistance for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea

The Albanese Labor Government continues to assist sheep farmers, livestock transport operators, and regional communities with the phase out of live sheep exports by sea, with $11.8 million in new grants awarded. 

Through Round 2 of the Farm Business Transition and Livestock Transport Industry Transition programs, 211 producers and 10 livestock transport operators will receive funding. 

The two programs are part of the Albanese Labor 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. 

Across two funding rounds, the Farm Business Transition program is now providing grants to 391 producers. 

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

Through two rounds of the Livestock Transport Industry Transition Program, 30 livestock transport businesses will receive grants to assist them with adjusting their operations ahead of the phase out.  

For more information, visit: Phase out of live sheep exports by sea - DAFF.

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

“The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on our commitment to support our sheep and livestock transport industry confidently plan for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea. 

“This latest round of grants provides practical support to our sheep farmers and transport operators to help them diversify their operations, invest in new equipment, and harness new opportunities. 

“We will continue working closely with our sheep industry to help them to adopt new farming systems, to strengthen their long-term business resilience, and to continue supporting regional economies.”