Live export

On 1 July 2024, the Federal Government legislated an end date to live sheep export. This means that this cruel and unfixable trade will end by 1 May 2028.

Live sheep export has cumulative and inherent animal welfare issues which could never be fixed by better regulation. Australia's dark history of live sheep export has proven this.

Backed by science and evidence and the Australian community, the decision to end live sheep export is welcomed by the RSPCA.

A better future for sheep is on the horizon.

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The RSPCA has consistently opposed the export of live animals due to its extensive history of poor animal welfare standards. 'Acceptable' mortality rates are frequently exceeded, and there is limited recourse to prevent exporters from encountering the same issues on subsequent live export journeys.

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You can help to advocate to end live sheep export. Here’s how:

1. Write to your federal MP and Senators in support of maintaining the phase out legislation. 2028 is still far away and we need to remind parliamentarians that this was the right decision and one that was firmly backed by science and by the community. You can find MPs’ and Senators’ contact details here.
2. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper or call talkback radio in support of a phase out of live sheep export, pointing out that sheep are better off at home.
3. Share our campaign and remind your community that we can do #BetterThanLiveExport for Australia’s sheep.

What does the journey to slaughter look like for our sheep in the live export industry? Our helpful infographic breaks down just how many hours, days and weeks of change, uncertainty and suffering are imposed on our sheep destined for overseas slaughter.

Let’s do better by putting the welfare of our animals first and ending live animal export.

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