Labor's decisions keep hurting farmers

Federal Labor should drop its absurd threat to Australia’s live sheep export industry to provide immediate respite and certainty for our farmers.

That’s according to Shadow Assistant Trade Minister and Federal Member for O’Connor, Rick Wilson, and
Federal Member for Forrest, Nola Marino.

Mr Wilson and Mrs Marino were speaking following the crisis meeting this week of hundreds of farmers in
Yornup.

“Seasonal conditions are bad, but farm profitability has been devastated as a direct result of Government
policy,” explained Mr Wilson.

“Rain cut out early in the spring meaning fodder supplies now are unusually low. For many farmers, stock
water is also a problem.

“It’s yet to be implemented, but the Albanese Government’s plan to shut down our world-class live sheep
export industry has already had disastrous consequences for WA farmers.”

Mr Wilson said “Exporting live sheep had been a valuable pressure-relief valve for sheep producers over
many years.

“Live export markets have enabled sheep producers to de-stock during poor seasons, like the one we’re in
right now,” he said.

“Local meat processors are heavily booked, and the best thing Agriculture Minister, Murray Wat could do is
reverse the proposed live export ban.

“He should also ensure his department takes a flexible approach with the moratorium imposed on live
shipments during this northern summer.

“We also call on the Government to revisit its decision last year to block Qatar Airways application for extra
flights into Australia. These passenger flights allow extra chilled lamb and sheepmeats reach international
markets.”

The WA and Federal Labor Governments are tying farmers' hands behind their backs according to Nola
Marino.

“The governments talk a big story of improving drought resilience of primary producers. But their policies
are undermining farmers at every turn,” she said.

“Worried and anxious farmers need more than a ‘taskforce’ or ‘talk fest’!” Mrs Marino said.

“They are looking for practical actions now from Federal and State Labor Governments.”

Media contacts:

Chris Thomson, Rick Wilson’s Office - (08) 9842 2777
Matt Granger, Nola Marino’s Office – 0407 448 64