Australia’s livestock exports industry

Australia’s livestock export industry The Australian livestock export industry exports sheep, cattle and goats to key markets in the Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa regions. Most livestock export cattle come from northern Australia and livestock export sheep from southern Australia. Dairy cattle are exported to build herds and provide milk and dairy products to overseas communities.

Australia’s livestock export industry The export of livestock is highly regulated and managed by the livestock export industry and the Australian Government. The Australian Livestock Export Corporation (LiveCorp) and the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council (ALEC) are the peak industry bodies who, with Meat & Livestock Australia, provide research and development, marketing, market access and animal welfare programs to advance the livestock export industry. Australian livestock exporters are committed to improving animal welfare.

Australia’s livestock export industry Most livestock exports travel by sea on purpose built livestock vessels. Some livestock exports, such as dairy cattle and goats, are transported by air. All livestock exports are cared for by qualified stockmen and in many cases, Government accredited veterinarians, for the entire journey.

Australia’s livestock export industry All livestock are kept in quarantine for a period before they are exported. Livestock exporters provide the livestock with the vaccinations and health checks required by each importing country. The livestock are fed the same food they’ll eat during the voyage so they get used to the new ration.

Australia’s livestock export industry Sheep and cattle livestock exports are loaded onto vessels at livestock ports. They walk from livestock trucks, up ramps and onto the ships. Each animal is inspected by an Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service veterinarian and inspector. Any animal that is not fit and healthy will not travel. All shipments must comply with the Australian standards for the export of livestock.

Australia’s livestock export industry Enough food to feed all animals during the voyage, plus additional contingency feed, is loaded on board. All livestock have constant access to food and water for the entire trip. Some ships even have their own desalination equipment to make additional water during the voyage.

Australia’s livestock export industry On board livestock vessels, all animals have constant access to food and water. They travel in pens where they have room to move around and lie down. Each deck is ventilated, and the temperature is monitored. All livestock are cared for by qualified stockmen and crew during the voyage. On longer voyages to the Middle East sheep are also cared for by Australian Quarantine Inspection Service accredited veterinarians.

Australia’s livestock export industry Australian farmers and livestock exporters care about their animals For More Information Visit