THE Albanese Labor Government has allocated another $11.8 million to Western Australian sheep farmers and livestock transport operators as part of the transition package for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.

Through Round 2 of the Farm Business Transition and Livestock Transport Industry Transition programs, 211 producers and 10 livestock transport operators will receive funding.

Grant allocations under the Farm Business Transition Program (Round 2) total $11.43 million to 211 producers.

Livestock Transport Industry Transition Program (Round 2) grants totalling $400,000 have been made to 10 livestock transport operators.

The two programs are part of the Albanese Labor Government’s almost $140 million transition assistance package, designed to help individuals, businesses and communities confidently plan and adapt ahead of the end of live sheep exports by sea from 1 May 2028.  For full Round 2 grant recipient details click here.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, said the Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to support the sheep and livestock transport industry to confidently plan for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.

“This latest round of grants provides practical support to our sheep farmers and transport operators to help them diversify their operations, invest in new equipment, and harness new opportunities.

“We will continue working closely with our sheep industry to help them to adopt new farming systems, to strengthen their long-term business resilience, and to continue supporting regional economies,” she said.

A media release for Ms Collins’ office said across two funding rounds, the Farm Business Transition program is now providing grants to 391 producers. The grants are supporting tailored business planning and a range of eligible activities, including infrastructure upgrades, equipment purchases, workforce training, innovation adoption and alternative management practices.

Through two rounds of the Livestock Transport Industry Transition Program, 30 livestock transport businesses will receive grants to assist them with adjusting their operations ahead of the phase out.

For more information, visit: Phase out of live sheep exports by sea – DAFF