Liberal MP Sussan Ley has announced plans to introduce a private member's bill to phase out live sheep exports to the Middle East over the next few years.
If successful, the plan could present a business opportunity to increase the export of boxed meat and chilled carcasses, according to the former Cabinet MP who represents the country NSW electorate of Farrer.
“Having been a farmer for 17 years, having represented rural Australia and sheep producers, I’ve got to say if I’m calling time on this industry, I think time is well and truly passed,” she told Sky News.
The bill would be aimed at live sheep exports to the Middle East only, which is effectively all of Australia’s live sheep export trade, Ley said.
The move follows the release of footage of sheep suffering in extreme heat aboard a ship from Perth to Doha by Animals Australia.
Following the release, Agriculture Minister David Littleproud called for a review of the standards for live sheep exports, however Ley says this does not go far enough.
"I feel deceived," she told Fairfax Media. "I have been on the front foot defending this trade for 15 years and I have heard, time and again, that it was just an isolated incident, just an oversight, we didn't want this, it will all be fixed. And nothing has changed."
"I want to see this live sheep trade permanently ceased," she said. According to Ley, because the phase-out would happen over a few years, farmers would need no compensation. She has also reportedly suggested that this would present new opportunites to boost exports of boxed meat and chilled carcasses.
Liberal MP Jason Wood also supports an end to live exports, and the Greens have voiced support for Ley's bill, while Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has announced Labor is seeking an immediate suspension of live sheep shipments during the northern summer.
