Cattlemen’s Association warns live sheep export ban could be already costing businesses

A leading industry group has warned there could be disaster as the federal government is set to push ahead with a live export ban on sheep.

THE Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association has warned of “significant personal distress to rural communities” as the incoming Labor government looks set to press ahead with a live sheep export ban.

The NTCA has further warned even the prospect of a ban raises the possibility the industry is already racking up damages.

Federal Labor committed to banning live sheep exports but the Agriculture Minister Murray Watt on Friday ruled out extending the measure to live cattle.

A ban on live cattle exports in 2011 is now subject to a class action between graziers and the Commonwealth, with the pastoral industry now saying it sustained $2bn worth of damages.

While Northern Territory graziers are unlikely to be affected by Labor’s looming ban on sheep exports, NTCA chief executive Will Evans has warned the policy risks undermining confidence in the industry.

Will Evans is the chief executive of the NT Cattlemen's Association

“An interesting question is whether damages have already begun to be incurred. If I was looking to invest in Western Australian farmland today, how much would the future loss of a $250m market for my product weigh in my decision making?” Mr Evans asked.

“While extending time frames may buy government time to develop an understanding of what they’re trying to do, they also need to consider just how damaging it is for rural communities and the families who live in them, to have to wait for someone else to determine their future on their behalf.”

The NTCA expressed optimism the live cattle export trade would not be targeted by a similar ban again.

Sheep at feed troughs aboard "MV Merino Express" livestock export ship at the Port of Fremantle, Perth, Western Australia. Picture: supplied

Responding to the NT News, Senator Watt said “yes” when asked if he was ruling out any ban to the live cattle export industry.

The Queensland Senator went on to acknowledge that “for live sheep exports, we are dealing with a complex supply chain, with many businesses involved in preparation, transport and export”.

“The phase out will be held over a number of years, allowing farmers, markets and supply chains to plan and prepare for the transition away from live sheep exports,” he said.

Earlier this week, Nationals leader David Littleproud warned a ban on the live sheep trade would lead to lower animal welfare standards globally.

“Countries with lesser welfare standards will fill the void and take our market share,” Mr Littleproud said.

”The reforms the previous Coalition Government put in place, based on science, not only reduced mortality but improved animal welfare re-enforced by continual monitoring.”