MLA is backing WA sheep producers by investing in practical research and new business options and by helping grow markets for Australian sheepmeat, so there are profitable alternatives as live exports wind down. See ‘R&D investments’ below for more information.

There’s a range of support available beyond MLA, including government, grower groups and community organisations. There are programs designed specifically for WA sheep producers affected by the phase‑out of live sheep exports, particularly the Federal Government’s Transition assistance package.

For financial assistance, see the ‘Grants and funding opportunities’ section below.

For wellbeing support, find a free Rural Aid counsellor near you.

According to projections from MLA’s Market Insights team, the outlook for the WA sheep and lamb industry is as follows –

Short term: Demand is strong and supply is tight, supporting prices.

Medium term: Demand remains firm, with competition expected for quality sheep and lamb.

Long term: Demand still positive, with growth focused on meat markets rather than live export.

For WA producers, the outlook points to opportunity for those adapting toward meat‑focused, market‑aligned systems, rather than a collapse in demand.

The transition is likely to be gradual and orderly, not a sudden stop. Live sheep exports by sea can continue until 1 May 2028, while government support, grants and infrastructure investment ramp up to help producers and the supply chain adjust. 

As live export becomes less central to the WA sheep industry, the focus shifts toward flexible, meat focused production systems that can manage seasonal risk, utilise existing assets and better align with processor demand. There is no single “right” model – the best option depends on rainfall zone, soils, labour, capital and business goals.

Possible options include:

• meat-focused breeding and lamb production
• mixed farming (cropping and sheep) systems
• confinement and/or lot feeding
• combination of all of the above.

MLA, industry groups and the WA and Australian Governments are aligning their messages to producers and sharing information through the same channels wherever possible.

An important part of this communication is the independent Live Sheep Export Transition Advocate, Dr Chris Rodwell, whose role is to act as a go-between for producers and government. The Advocate listens to producers and supply chain businesses, explains what support is available and how the transition is tracking, and feeds real, on the ground concerns back to government. He also helps guide planning for the future of the WA sheep meat and wool industry, including a formal stocktake of progress in 2026–27.

Industry is working together to cut through confusion, keep everyone hearing the same story, and help producers make informed, business led decisions right through to May 2028 and beyond.