Wilson MP has also been vocal in opposing the ban, seconding an urgent motion in the House of Representatives seeking a parliamentary inquiry into the decision on May 30. He expressed his disappointment in the lack of consultation with Western Australian farmers by the Labor Party.
The Keep the Sheep petition, aimed at reversing the ban on live sheep exports, has garnered significant support with 33,500 signatures online. The petition emphasizes the importance of the sheep industry to rural towns and highlights the potential impact of its disappearance.
The convoy in Perth, featuring large trucks with signs supporting farmers and the sheep industry, has gained momentum and overwhelming support from both city and regional areas. Participants, including ALEC CEO Mark Harvey-Sutton, are determined to fight against what they consider to be a detrimental policy.
National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke commended the grassroots demonstration in Perth, calling it a historic display of unity among farmers. He urged politicians to take notice of the convoy and recognize the strong support for farmers within rural communities.
The government’s decision to phase out live sheep exports by May 1, 2028, has sparked controversy, with Agriculture Minister Murray Watt defending the policy as an investment in the future of the Australian sheep industry. Despite pressure to reconsider the ban, both Minister Watt and Nationals Leader David Littleproud stand by the government’s decision.
The convoy and ongoing protests signal a growing opposition to the ban on live sheep exports, with participants determined to make it an election issue and continue their fight for the industry’s survival.
Minister Watt recently posted a photo revealing that beef exports have increased by an impressive 429 percent to $51.8 million, while sheep meat exports have also seen a 19 percent rise to $100.1 million.
“This growth is benefiting Australian farmers, workers, and consumers,” he stated.
