New leadership appointments position Sheep Sustainability Framework for next phase of delivery
The Sheep Sustainability Framework (SSF) continues to build momentum in 2026, with new appointments to the Steering Group strengthening industry representation as the Framework evolves across the Australian sheep and wool sector.
The appointments come at a time of increasing demand for credible, transparent sustainability data across global supply chains, with the SSF playing an important role in supporting industry, markets and stakeholders.
The SSF is the Australian sheep and wool industry’s national framework for measuring and reporting on sustainability priorities across the Australian sheep and wool sector. It brings together data from across the value chain to provide a transparent, evidence-based view of industry progress against key environmental, animal welfare, people and economic indicators.
Following an extensive recruitment process, five new members have been appointed to the SSF Steering Group. Renata Paliskis (Wheatbelt NRM) has been appointed Chair, joined by:
- Brydie Creagh (AWEX) - Supply Chain Representative
- Tanisha Shields (Rabobank) - Finance Representative
- David Sackett (formerly of Growth Farms Australia) - Corporate Producer Representative
- Brett Smith (Elders) - Producer Representative.
Incoming Chair Renata Paliskis, a Certified Practicing Accountant, brings extensive experience in natural resource management and sustainability, with a focus on land stewardship, livestock supply chains and industry engagement.
The new members bring experience across the value chain. Brydie Creagh contributes expertise in sustainability and integrity within supply chain services, alongside a connection to a family sheep and wool operation in Western Australia.
Brett Smith brings a producer perspective through his role as a district wool manager and involvement in a Merino operation near St George, Queensland.
Tanisha Shields adds financial and analytical expertise, with a background in data and agricultural advisory, complemented by her connection to a family farming operation in Oxley, New South Wales.
They join existing members representing key parts of the value chain, including retail, wool processing and meat processing.
With the Steering Group now restored to full complement, it is well positioned to guide the ongoing development of the Framework.
Ms Paliskis said credible sustainability data is playing an increasingly important role across the industry.
“Strong, transparent data is essential to supporting market access and maintaining industry confidence,” Ms Paliskis said.
“The SSF is well placed to support this, and our focus will be on strengthening its relevance, consistency and utilisation across the supply chain.”
Outgoing Chair Scott Williams, who has led the Steering Group since 2022, said the SSF had become an important asset for the industry.
“The SSF plays a critical role in providing credible, transparent data on industry sustainability,” Mr Williams said.
“I’m confident the new Steering Group is well placed to continue building its value across the supply chain.”
Mr Williams reflected on the growing recognition of the Framework internationally, noting its role in supporting market engagement and trade discussions.
Lachlan Monsbourgh will also step down from the Steering Group after five years of contribution, with both members concluding their terms in April.
The industry acknowledges and thanks Mr Williams and Mr Monsbourgh for their significant contribution to the development of the Framework. Their leadership and commitment have been instrumental in establishing the SSF as a credible, industry led source of sustainability data and insights.
The refreshed Steering Group will support the next phase of SSF development, including continued improvements to data coverage, reporting and industry engagement.
To find out more about the SSF visit the website at Sheep Sustainability Framework.
