A NSW parliamentary inquiry has been established to inquire into and report on the impact of the
phase-out of Australian live sheep exports by sea on New South Wales. In particular, the inquiry will consider the economic and social considerations of such a phase-out on regional communities and animal welfare considerations.
The Chairman of Portfolio Committee No. 4, the Hon Mark Banasiak MLC said: “The inquiry will investigate the impact of the Australian Government’s phase-out of live sheep exports on regional communities in New South Wales, including, but not limited to, transport operators, fodder and grain producers and local meat processors. The inquiry will assess those impacts, along with other factors such as the implications for demand for New South Wales mutton and whether the phase-out will impact on the NSW Government’s revenue and bottom line.”
Mr Banasiak continued: “The inquiry will also examine the reasons for the Australian Government’s phase-out of live sheep exports, potential economic losses from the phase-out, the impact on jobs across regional New South Wales, possible alternative markets, opportunities and income streams for New South Wales sheep producers, and whether the Australian Government should provide compensation to sheep producers in this state.”
Mr Banasiak concluded: “Additionally, the inquiry will seek to identify examples of graziers in other regions or countries that have successfully transitioned away from live exports and assess broader community views in New South Wales of the live export industry.”
The committee is calling for public submissions, which may be lodged via the committee’s website until 20 September 2024. An online questionnaire will also be established and be available on the committee’s website.
