Station to Stomach: Live Export in Australia

Live animal export is a major source of economic income for the agriculture industry in Australia. However, live export is also a hot topic issue in Australia too.

Lyn White, Animals Australia, speaking at the Ban Live Animals Export Rally.

In the past year livestock exporting to Indonesia was briefly stopped because the processing of beef in the country was seen as inhumane. Groups like Animals Australia and RSPCA Australia have formed alliances to ban live export. 

Just this week protesters chained themselves to a gate in an effort to prevent the export of live animals. There were even protesters who boarded the ship so they could take footage of the "substandard" holding areas.

Meat & Livestock Australia has created YouTube channel to promote the livestock export industry and the following video has some interesting facts about the importance of this agriculture industry segment.

There can be as many as 23,000 head of cattle on the large export ships and more than 100,000 sheep. Over 99 percent of sheep arrive healthy to their destination, while 99.9 percent of cattle make it to their new homes safely. The animals even gain a decent amount of weight while on their journey across the ocean by consuming pelleted ration. 

The ships are ventilated by large fans and fresh water is produced by a massive desalination unit. Veterinarians and accredited stockmen ride with the animals to help monitor their health and ensure they are treated humanely upon arrival.


Cattle and sheep are transported to countries like Egypt, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia. Over $1 billion in is made off the nearly 1 million cattle and 4.5 million sheep that are exported each year.

Here are some more facts about live export from Meat & Livestock Australia.

Time will tell if live export will be ended altogether in Australia or if agreements can be made between the organizations who oppose this important industry.

Until next time, happy trails!