Australia's live export industry is facing a double whammy as war in the Middle East restricts shipping channels and forces up the cost of diesel for pastoralists and farmers.
Northern Australia's cattle industry leaders are confident politicians are on their side in the wake of the federal government's decision to ban live sheep exports from mid-2028.
The federal government has refused an exemption to its live export ban that would have allowed 56,000 sheep to be transported to the Middle East, and they will now be sent to abattoirs in Western Australia.
Australia's largest live cattle exporter, Wellard Group, has welcomed a new deal that will open up the China market but has cautioned about the likely boost, especially for cattle producers in northern Australia.
