The consultation period on the Heat Stress Risk Assessment draft report has been extended by one month to 1 March 2019.
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said it was important all stakeholders had a chance to give detailed, considered feedback.
"The industry asked us to move to a model based on animal welfare rather than just comparing how many sheep die on each voyage, so we're doing that calmly and decisively," Minister Littleproud said.
"The Heat Stress Risk Assessment review was done by a panel of experts in animal welfare, including heat stress physiology, with expert input from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority on ship ventilation.
"The recommendations in the draft report are significant and its sensible to give stakeholders more time to provide well thought out and researched submissions.
"Submissions to the draft report will be considered by the panel as it finalises its report and recommendations to the independent regulator of live exports, the Department of Agriculture.
"Interim arrangements for the coming northern summer can be considered once the submission period has ended."
Stakeholders can provide their feedback to the draft report via the 'Have Your Say' platform at http://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/hsra-review
Fast facts
- The independent panel recommended:
- A framework which assessed the risk of sheep getting heat stress, rather than the risk of high numbers of sheep dying.
