Frequently Asked Questions

The Future Flock is a national strategy for Australia’s sheep industry - covering both sheepmeat and wool - designed to guide the sector through change and set a profitable, resilient direction for decades to come.

The WA Roadmap is a state‑specific plan, developed in partnership with the Transition Advocate and the Strategic Steering Group, to support the industry through the transition away from live sheep exports.

They complement each other but are separate. The WA Roadmap channels state priorities into the national The Future Flock strategy, while the national plan provides a framework that supports WA’s unique actions and investments.

The WA Roadmap will be developed in consultation with WA stakeholders and the Strategic Steering Group. It will address the state’s specific challenges and opportunities, including the phase‑out of live sheep exports by sea in 2028.

Unlike static reports, The Future Flock will be a dynamic, online, interactive plan. It will evolve as markets, technology, and policies change, with clear accountability and ongoing monitoring to ensure measurable impact.

We understand consultation fatigue in WA. This process will build on previous work, ensuring past consultation outcomes are recognised and incorporated, while still welcoming new voices and perspectives.

Australia’s sheep industry is navigating volatile markets, shifting consumer expectations, climate and biosecurity risks, and regulatory change. At the same time, global demand, productivity improvements, and new technologies create major opportunities. Without a plan, the industry reacts to change; with a strategy, it can shape the future.

Existing strategies are either state‑based or focus on just one commodity (meat or wool). The Sheep Sustainability Framework covers both but focuses on ESG themes. The Future Flock is the first whole‑of‑industry national plan, supported by economic modelling and wide consultation.

Strategies, roadmaps, or plans matter. They give direction, clarity, and confidence - especially in a fast‑moving sector like agriculture. A strategy doesn’t eliminate uncertainty, but it equips the industry to respond with confidence and unity.

Sheep Producers Australia (SPA) is leading The Future Flock, supported by subcontractors.

SPA has a strong track record, including stewardship of the Sheep Industry Strategic Plans (1995–2020). SPA works nationally across the supply chain, with extensive networks and a focus on ensuring a sustainable sheep industry.

It is a co‑investment between the Australian Government and Sheep Producers Australia.

· Consultation: Across the supply chain via workshops, field days, sales, online forums, surveys, and submissions.

· National Panel: An independent panel will oversee development.

· Evidence‑based modelling: Economic analysis will test scenarios and ensure recommendations deliver farm‑gate value.

· A live, interactive website with strong governance, accountability, and ongoing evaluation.

· A unified national framework with state‑specific pathways.

· Clarity and confidence for long‑term decision‑making.

· Stronger collaboration across producers, processors, researchers, service providers, government, and policymakers.

· One voice for industry advocacy.

The strategy will launch at LambEx26 (7-10July 2026) in Adelaide, South Australia.

· Complete the industry survey or submit feedback via The Future Flock website.

· Apply to join the National Panel (EOIs are now open).

· Participate in consultation activities in your region.

· Share updates through networks, organisations, and social media.

State farming organisations and supply chains are invited to:

· Build on existing state blueprints and strategies.

· Share data and insights.

· Encourage leaders to apply for the National Panel.

· Co‑host consultation activities and promote participation across networks.