Cattle Industry groups, strongly criticised the Senate's recent approval of a ban on live sheep exports, calling it a worrying precedent. Despite broad opposition from agricultural sectors, the legislation passed with Labor and Greens support, dismissing proposed amendments. Dr. Chris Parker, CEO of Cattle Australia, condemned the decision as a direct assault on Australian agriculture driven by political expediency rather than evidence based policy.
"This ban is a blatant attack on Australian agriculture and a concession to activist ideology," remarked Dr. Parker, highlighting concerns over the rushed legislative process and its implications for the broader agricultural sector.
In response to the sheep export ban, a new campaign against live cattle exports gained momentum, supported by environmental groups and animal welfare advocates. Both the Greens and the RSPCA celebrated the Senate's decision, underscoring their opposition to live cattle exports. Independent MPs Zali Steggall and Kylea Tink have also been vocal opponents of the practice. Despite Agriculture Minister Murray Watt's assurance of government support for live cattle exports, Nationals leader David Littleproud expressed skepticism, criticising Labor's willingness to curtail industries without sufficient justification.
"Farmers now know Labor is willing to shut down a successful trade based on ideology," Mr. Littleproud lamented, questioning Labor's alignment with animal activists despite Australia's strict animal welfare standards.
Industry figures also questioned the government's mandate for the ban, highlighting inconsistencies in its electoral stance. John Hassell, WA Farmers president and National Farmers' Federation vice president, criticised the government's claim of a mandate, asserting that the issue was not a prominent electoral priority. Despite setbacks, industry leaders remain determined to oppose the ban, supported by public sentiment and widespread opposition within agricultural communities. Mark Harvey Sutton, CEO of the Australian Live Exporters Council, described the Senate's decision as detrimental to agriculture and pledged continued resistance.
"With the rushed manner in which this Bill was passed, the government has crossed a line," Sutton declared, highlighting the sector's mobilization and unity in response to what he views as an unjust policy change.
The industry's resolve to challenge the ban remains strong, buoyed by public support and organized opposition efforts.
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