Federal Agriculture Minister throws support behind live exports

Federal Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie has thrown her full support behind WA’s live export industry amid mounting uncertainty surrounding the future of sheep shipments.

Speaking via video link at last Friday’s Pastoralists and Graziers Association convention, the Victorian senator gave a strong indication she was willing to fight for live shipping’s survival.

Senator McKenzie championed the $580 million live sheep trade’s importance to the WA economy.

“Our Government supports prosperous and sustainable live sheep and cattle export trades,” she said.

“I know this is an industry committed to the highest animal welfare standards and this is what is required to restore confidence in the industry.

“You know as an industry you have my full support as Australia’s agriculture minister.”

The comments come after the Federal Department of Water and Agriculture Resources last week confirmed it would extend a three-month shipping moratorium for Middle East-bound voyages.

Under the decision, announced last Wednesday, the shipping ban will continue to September 22 instead of ending on September 1.

Ms McKenzie called on WA’s sheep sector to remain active in promoting science-based facts to ensure positive animal welfare results.

“I’d encourage the industry to keep delivering excellent outcomes and to always put forward robust science and evidence to decision makers and to make sure the industry is transparent,” she said.