IN A BID to appease live sheep exporters, the federal government is advertising for an advocate to ease the transition away from live sheep exports by sea.
The government’s decision to ban live sheep exports by sea has angered many sheep farmers who have raised their voices in protest.
In a media release issued on 2 December the government said the role of the Transition Advocate has been created to support the industry and ensure strong communication between government and industry, in response to a recommendation by an independent panel.
“As part of the role, the Transition Advocate will provide advice and recommendations on how the sheep supply chain is adapting ahead of the end of the trade,” the release said.
“Performing an advisory role, the advocate will support further collaboration with both sheep producers and supply chain businesses to maintain a coordinated, whole of industry approach.
“In addition, the Transition Advocate will identify and communicate to the government on key supply chain issues to promote a resilient industry and a successful phase out.”
The expression of interest is open to applications for a single Transition Advocate or a small advisory group of two to three members, with the term of appointment to run until 30 June 2029.
In other measures, in October, the government committed a further $32.7 million to the transition support package for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.
This increased the total amount to assist sheep producers and those in the associated supply chains to adapt from $64.6 million to $97.3 million, and raised the total overall package for the transition to $139.7 million.
The Government is working with the Western Australian Government to deliver key elements of the transition package including processing capacity grants and community wellbeing support.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said the transition advocate would be important in achieving the successful phase out of live sheep exports by sea.
“They will link stakeholders, producers and the supply chain to government, and act as a crucial conduit,” Ms Collins said.
“Transparency, communication and engagement will be important aspects of the transition advocate’s role as part of a broader strategy to provide confidence for affected people, business and communities in the sheep supply chain.
“We are taking a steady, clear methodical approach to the phase out, ensuring certainty for business while supporting producers and processors to embrace the opportunities of the future.”
