Question 1

What is The Future Flock?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What is the WA Roadmap to 2028?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How do The Future Flock and the WA Roadmap to 2028 fit together?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

How will the strategy support Western Australian producers?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Why is this different from past strategies?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Will there be more consultation in WA?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Why is this strategy needed now?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Aren’t we already covered by other strategies?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Why another strategy?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Who is leading the project?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

Why SPA?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

Who is funding The Future Flock?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 13

How will The Future Flock be developed?

Accepted Answer

·       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.

Question 14

What will the strategy deliver?

Accepted Answer

·       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.

Question 15

When will The Future Flock be released?

Accepted Answer

The strategy will launch at LambEx26 (https://www.lambex.org.au)(7-10July 2026) in Adelaide, South Australia.

Question 16

How can producers and organisations get involved?

Accepted Answer

·       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.

Question 17

What role do state farming organisations and supply chains play?

Accepted Answer

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.

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