A RECRUITMENT drive has started for leadership positions on Australia’s Sheep Sustainability Framework Steering Group.

Meat & Livestock Australia is calling for applications by close of business 13 February 2026 for the roles of chair and steering group members for the Sheep Sustainability Framework.

MLA said the SSF was created to monitor, measure and report on the sustainability performance of the Australian sheep and wool industry.

It provides transparent data on key environmental, social, economic and animal care indicators and supports the industry’s long-term access to markets, investment and community trust, MLA said.

MLA said the recruitment of new SSF steering group members and a new chair will help ensure the framework continues to deliver credible reporting and reflect the evolving expectations of producers, customers, investors and the wider community.

Approaching the end of his tenure, SSF Steering Group chair Dr Scott Williams said contributing to the establishment and growth of the framework had been both meaningful and positive.

“The SSF has become a trusted and credible source of sustainability insights for the Australian sheep and wool industry,” Dr Williams said.

“During my time as chair, I have been proud to see industry stakeholders across the value chain working together to improve transparency and demonstrate measurable progress.”

Dr Williams said the incoming chair and steering group members would play an important role in strengthening the framework’s impact.

“The framework provides producers with a clearer understanding of the industry’s material issues and helps highlight where practice change or innovation can deliver value.

“I would encourage people with the right experience to step forward. This is a chance to influence the future sustainability narrative of one of Australia’s most important agricultural industries,” Dr Williams said.

Steering group chair duties

MLA said the SSF Steering Group chair leads the group, overseeing the design and delivery of the framework and working closely with the SSF board and manager. The role includes representing the SSF at key events and supporting industry wide engagement on sustainability reporting. The position requires about 60 hours per year, with remuneration provided according to MLA’s sitting fee policy, MLA said.

Steering group members

MLA said steering group members contribute to the development and reporting of the SSF, provide insights on sustainability issues across the value chain and support ongoing improvement in the framework’s indicators and data. Experience in sheep production, wool brokering, livestock agency work, advisory services, sustainability consulting or finance is welcomed. The time commitment is around 60 hours per year with sitting fees paid in line with MLA policy.

How to apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit the following:

• A current resume
• A one page pitch outlining their suitability
• Applications should be sent to [email protected]

For further information, please contact: Alister Hawksford, program manager sustainability credentials, MLA, SSF manager, 0423 659 140, [email protected]