Matt O'Sullivan (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In 1891, an event known as the great shearers' strike played a pivotal role in the formation of Australia's oldest political party. Widely regarded as one of Australia's earliest and most significant industrial disputes, it was one of the key factors in the establishment of a political party that represented the hardworking Australian, advocating for better working conditions. However, that party is almost unrecognisable today. Reflecting a shift in activist pressures and the electoral threat posed by far-left parties such as the Greens, the modern-day Labor Party has made clear its prioritisation of urban, left-leaning agendas over the economic and social realities affecting rural Australia.

Nowhere is this clearer than in the Labor Party's decision to ban live sheep exports by 2028. There are implications for rural communities, particularly in my home state of Western Australia. It will have dire consequences for our farmers and country towns. As a result, Western Australian farmers have already started downsizing operations, including reducing lamb numbers and, ironically, using euthanasia to maintain healthy herd sizes, or leaving the industry altogether.

With rigid regulations, Australia is a world leader in animal welfare standards. Reducing animal mortality is in both the buyer's and the seller's best interests. The ban will only increase demand for live exports from other countries with standards much lower than those in Australia. It threatens not only Australia's sheep and wool industries but also livelihoods and communities. Far beyond the immediate loss of export income, local industries, schools, clubs and individuals will be affected.

With both state and federal elections on the horizon, Labor has clearly alienated its voter base.