Phase Out of Live Sheep Exports by Sea - Support for Research and Development Extension

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 Support for Research and Development Extension Program (the program) will run over 3 years from 2025-26 to 2027-28. The program was announced as part of the Phase Out of the Export of Live Sheep by Sea – transition assistance. This program is an extension program to demonstrate and encourage adoption of best practice farming systems to improve farmer knowledge in new farming practices; and assist the sheep industry to transition away from live sheep exports by sea by considering other market opportunities for wool, meat and co-products. Areas of applied research may include, but are not limited to, the latest techniques and knowledge on pasture management, genetics, nutrition, confinement feeding and any matters relating to the preparation of sheep for meat and wool production or processing. The application of identified research would be expected to consider local factors affecting production.  Typically, supported projects will be delivered at on-farm locations or at events such as industry field days to ensure broad audience reach. However, other proposals meeting the requirements of these grant opportunity guidelines will also be considered. Strong project applications will demonstrate a focus on sheep producers most affected by the transition away from the export of live sheep by sea.  The objective of the program is: To ensure that sheep producers are well informed to implement best practice farming methods that will enhance their transition from the export of live sheep by sea.  The intended outcomes of the program are: Sheep producers have knowledge and skills derived from the latest applicable research and development to inform commercial decisions in the transition of their businesses from the export of live sheep by sea.