Australia funds sheep industry transition after export ban
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The Western Australian government released a second round of grants through the Supply Chain Capacity Program to help businesses adjust after the state banned live sheep exports.
The program will distribute AUD $14.1 million to support projects that create new opportunities for the sheep industry. These grants follow an initial AUD $17.5 million released earlier and aim to build capacity within Western Australia’s sheep processing and value-adding sectors.
The Western Australian government announced in May 2023 that it would ban live sheep exports, a decision that affected many farmers and businesses reliant on shipping sheep to overseas markets. The Supply Chain Capacity Program intends to mitigate the impacts of this ban by funding projects that improve infrastructure, increase processing capabilities, and develop new products. Businesses can use the grants to invest in equipment upgrades, skills training, and market development initiatives.
The government expects these investments will help the industry transition toward a sustainable future focused on domestic processing and high-value products. The funding is part of a broader AUD $100 million package to support the industry. The program operates in phases, with the second round focusing on projects that can deliver tangible benefits in the short to medium term. The Western Australian government continues to work with industry stakeholders to ensure a smooth and equitable transition for all involved.
