Assistance for the sheep supply chain to transition
The Australian Government has committed $139.8 million as part a transition assistance package to support the phase out of live sheep exports by sea.
As part of the assistance package, a $40 million Supply Chain Capacity Program will assist WA sheep producers and supply chain businesses to adjust to the cessation of live sheep exports by sea and moderate the impact of the change.
Community Wellbeing Program
Also part of the Australian Government's $139.8 million assistance package is a $1.5 million Community Wellbeing Program administered by the department.
The program supports communities impacted by the phase-out of live sheep exports by sea, providing funding for the delivery of mental health and community wellbeing activities across regional WA.
Rural Aid is providing counselling and wellbeing support to farmers, their families and farm workers impacted by the phase out. Services include:
- one-on-one counselling available in person or by phone, with three dedicated counsellor positions based in regional WA
- delivery of the Mustering Growth in school program, supporting the wellbeing of young people in agricultural communities.
Holyoake is delivering targeted mental health training to equip farmers, families, frontline workers and industry leaders with practical skills to manage stress, support others, and strengthen community resilience.
Training programs include:
- Standard Mental Health First Aid Course
- Accidental Counsellor Workshop
- Agribalance+ Workshop.
Blue Tree Project will deliver a series of community events designed to:
- build mental health awareness
- inspire open conversations
- provide practical wellbeing tools
- connect communities with trained professionals
- offer access to free resources and support.
These events aim to strengthen community connection and promote positive mental health across regional areas.
WA Government submission - live sheep export (July 2023)
More information
For more information on the Federal Government’s commitment to phase out live sheep exports by sea, visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.