Consultation to help inform how and when to phase out live sheep exports by sea has largely been completed. We would like to acknowledge and thank all who have contributed to our consultation process, and now provide some insights into what we heard.
Engagement
As noted in our 24 April 2023 statement, our initial approach to consultations did not meet the expectations of those interested in this process. We learnt from that feedback and adjusted our approach. We are pleased to report that since then we have engaged with over 2000 attendees at our in-person forums and over 330 at our virtual forums, as well as holding over 80 meetings with organisations and farmer groups. We appreciate that these consultations have been conducted in a constructive and respectful manner. We have also received over 800 written submissions and 3,300 survey responses.
The submissions received, for which people have given permission for publication are available to view on the Have Your Say webpage.
We met with a broad range of stakeholders to gain their insights on potential effects of the policy, when live exports by sea should be stopped, and options to support a transition to other markets and forms of production. These included producers, supply chain participants, industry representative bodies, exporting businesses, community groups and small business operators in regional areas, animal welfare organisations, state and territory governments, and trading partners.
We acknowledge this is an uncertain time for many. We heard and recognise the unease about the future of the sheep and related industries in Western Australia. Discussing the policy and its potential impacts on livelihoods has been unsettling for many people. We encourage anyone needing support – or who wants to help others – to follow up these social support and wellbeing resources. Services specific to WA include free financial counselling through Rural West, and WA-based mental health support services.
We found immense value in hearing the firsthand experiences of those we met and those who contributed in writing, and building our understanding of how this policy may affect people in the supply chain, their businesses and their communities. We also appreciated the ideas offered for how to approach the move away from live sheep exports by sea.
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