Phase Out of Live Sheep Exports by Sea - Shearing Industry Transition Program

Overview

The Australian Government is providing assistance for sheep producers and associated supply chain entities that have been affected by the cessation of live sheep exports by sea from 1 May 2028. The Shearing Industry Transition Program (the program) will run over 2 years from 2025-26 to 2026-27. The program was announced as part of the Phase Out of Live Sheep Exports by Sea – transition assistance. The proposal is to expand the remit of shearing contractors to facilitate a broader range of seasonally complementary agricultural and regional work for their employees – helping keep shearing teams and contractors employed locally year-round.   The objectives of the program are:   Widely available, expanded employment options for employees of shearing contractors who have been affected by the phase out of live sheep exports by sea through their existing employers, and within their existing communities.   Sector specific training is available in regional areas impacted by the phase out of live sheep exports by sea  The intended outcomes of the program are:  Employees of shearing contractor businesses affected by the phase out of live sheep exports by sea have year-round work opportunities leading to high retention rates both within the industry and in regional towns.   Shearing contractor businesses that have been affected by the phase out of live sheep exports by sea develop capabilities to manage business and Work Health and Safety risks as well as financial, business and people management.   Employees of shearing contractor businesses affected by the phase out of live sheep exports by sea have the confidence, competence and training/certifications to safely undertake new work outside of shearing. Agricultural businesses make use of this new workforce.