Leader of The Nationals WA Shane Love has condemned the Federal Labor Government’s introduction of new laws to ban live sheep export, labelling it a betrayal of Western Australia.
The Export Control Amendment (Ending Live Sheep Exports by Sea) Bill 2024 was introduced into the House of Representatives this week.
Mr Love said the Bill would decimate WA’s sheep industry by banning live sheep exports by May 2028.
“The introduction of this Bill is a contemptuous betrayal of Western Australia, our primary producers, and the many regional businesses and communities made viable by this trade,” Mr Love said.
“Prime Minister Albanese has clearly forgotten how Australia was built on the sheep’s back, and how regional WA continues to power the national economy.”
Mr Love emphasised there was only one way to stop the live sheep export ban.
“The only way to prevent this ban coming into effect in May 2028 is to change the Government.
“At the 2025 Federal Election, every Western Australian will have the opportunity to send a message to Anthony Albanese and Labor by voting them out of Government and consigning this ill-thought-out ban to the annals of history.”
Member for Roe Peter Rundle MLA, whose electorate represents the majority of WA’s sheep producers, condemned the Federal Labor Government’s actions.
“Introducing this Bill when producers in the Great Southern are facing a dry and difficult season proves Anthony Albanese is no friend to agriculture or the regional communities it supports,” Mr Rundle said.
“Premier Roger Cook, siding with his Labor colleagues, mocking agriculture in State Parliament, and claiming the Federal Government has the sector’s best interests at heart shows his true colours.”
The Nationals WA joined more than 1,000 primary producers, farming families and regional leaders as part of the Keep the Sheep Rally in the Perth CBD today.
“The mammoth turnout is a demonstration of just how the people of WA feel about the impact of the Albanese Government’s decision to ban live sheep export,” Mr Rundle said.
“The Nationals WA are proud to stand with our livestock producers, truck drivers, and regional communities to send a message to WA Labor MPs.
“This convoy is helping to raise awareness of the impact of Labor’s ban and make sure every Western Australian understands the devastating impact this decision will have on regional WA.”
Visit www.keepthesheep.com.au to show your support.
