Published on Monday, 20 May 2024 at 11:56:42 AM

Shire of Merredin Councillors have voiced profound concern regarding the recent decision by our Federal Government to phase out live sheep exports by 2028.

Amid extensive media coverage, it appears that our Federal representatives have prioritised the interests of a vocal, uninformed minority over those of our farmers, with seemingly little consideration for the devastating effects on rural communities.

Questions have been raised about the rationale behind this move, given the government's commitment to supporting Australian-made industries. The Shire is concerned that the decision may be influenced by the demographic distribution of certain advocacy groups, predominantly based in urban areas, which could have affected the decision-making process.

This decree jeopardises the livelihoods of countless generations of hard-working sheep farmers statewide, while also threatening the economic stability of rural towns reliant on servicing the agricultural sector.

Shire President Mark McKenzie has conveyed the disappointment of the Councillors regarding the decision. “We [Shire of Merredin Council] believe that prioritising the interests of a minority group may not be in the best interest of rural communities,” he said.

“The Shire will be penning a letter to the Minister for Agriculture, Senator Murray Watt, urging the Federal Government to reconsider this decision and continue supporting the live export industry, which meets regulatory standards and contributes significantly to the Australian economy.”

ENDS

Media contact:
Kohdee Swinwood
Media and Communications Officer – Shire of Merredin
E: media@merredin.wa.gov.au
P: (08) 9041 1611
M: 0435 551 925

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