The Nationals WA have condemned the Albanese Labor Government’s reckless decision to
phase out the live sheep trade by 2028, warning it is already causing irreparable harm to
Western Australia.
The abrupt closure of the Tammin abattoir has left over 100 workers without jobs, dealing a
disastrous blow to the Wheatbelt community.
The Nationals WA candidate for Central Wheatbelt Lachlan Hunter described the closure as
more than just the loss of a facility – it represents a devastating setback for over 100 families
who rely on the abattoir to survive.
“With great fanfare, the Albanese Labor Government unveiled their so-called live sheep
transition package, promising to support local processors and protect regional jobs. Yet, just
months later, Tammin’s largest employer is shutting its doors,”
“This is catastrophic. The ripple effect will hit local schools, shops, and essential services
hard. This is not just about the abattoir – it is about an entire regional ecosystem that depends
on these jobs to survive,” Mr Hunter said.
“Labor’s agricultural policies are disastrous for WA. They pledged to safeguard regional
employment, but instead, we are witnessing the exact opposite. Our farmers, workers, and
communities have been abandoned.”
On Friday, Tammin abattoir operator Minerva Foods announced an immediate halt to
operations, confirming that staff were informed of the closure without prior notice.
Federal Candidate for Bullwinkel, Hon Mia Davies MP, has urged the Cook Labor Government
and Minister for Agriculture Jackie Jarvis to intervene urgently to protect WA’s agricultural
sector.
“The Cook Labor Government must exhaust all avenues to keep Tammin abattoir operational.
Minister Jarvis has an obligation to act now and prevent further economic devastation across
regional WA,” Ms Davies said.
She warned that the closure’s economic shock will reverberate throughout the Wheatbelt,
affecting families and businesses in Tammin, Kellerberrin, and Cunderdin.
“The Albanese Government’s live sheep export ban is already dismantling livelihoods,
shuttering businesses, and destabilising rural communities. How many more jobs must be lost
before action is taken?” Ms Davies said.
“The Nationals WA remain unwavering in our commitment to standing up for regional
communities and safeguarding local industries.”
Lachlan Hunter said the Nationals stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Tammin and
the entire Wheatbelt.
“Labor may have turned their backs, but we never have and we never will,” Mr Hunter said.
