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On 1 July 2024, the Federal Government…
Live sheep export

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Media release: Live sheep export unfixable, unnecessary, unacceptable – and now, soon to be unlawful
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Live sheep export unfixable, unnecessary, unacceptable – and now, soon to be unlawful

The RSPCA has welcomed the historic passage through Parliament of a legislated end date to live sheep export.
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  • RSPCA Australia
  • Monday, 1 July 2024
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The RSPCA has welcomed the historic passage through Parliament of a legislated end date to live sheep export.

“Like the whole animal welfare community, we’re feeling a mix of emotions today,” said RSPCA Australia CEO Richard Mussell. “But most of all we’re relieved.”

“Relieved that, from 1 May 2028, sheep will no longer be sent on long-haul journeys that the animal welfare science overwhelmingly tells us puts them at a great risk of suffering.

“Relieved that so many MPs and Senators, from across the Parliament, have supported the phase out and seen this legislation for what it is – about animal welfare.

“And relieved that soon, disasters like we’ve seen so many times involving Australian sheep at sea will be a thing of the past as we put this shameful chapter of Australia’s history behind us and protect the welfare of sheep.

“The evidence has told us time and time again that live sheep export is unfixable.

“The economic data has consistently told us that it is unnecessary.

“The Australian community decided a long time ago that it is unacceptable.

“And today, Australia’s 47th Parliament has decided that it will be unlawful.

“Australia is now truly leading the way for animal welfare, with this definitive commitment to ending live sheep export by sea and transitioning to a more sustainable and humane future.

“There is only one thing for government, industry and the animal welfare sector to do now – to accept the decision today and work together towards a better future for Australian sheep.”

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