Sheep Sustainability Framework releases 2025 Annual Report: Progress, Challenges and Evolution

The Sheep Sustainability Framework (SSF) has released its fifth Annual Report, providing a detailed account of the Australian sheep industry's progress and challenges across key sustainability priorities. 
 
Now in its fifth year, the Framework continues to evolve as a practical tool for tracking whole of industry performance, supporting transparency, and informing investment and improvement across the value chain.
 
The 2025 report outlines key achievements and challenges across animal welfare, environmental stewardship, workforce wellbeing, and financial resilience. It also introduces new metrics to better reflect industry performance, including lamb survival, conservation practices, and community connectedness.
 
Dr Scott Williams, Chair of the SSF Steering Group, said the report reflects a year of transition, resilience and evolution for the Framework.
 
“It has been a difficult year for many in the industry, especially those producers affected by drought,” Dr Williams said.
 
“Subdued prices for wool have contributed to a reduction in the national sheep flock, and many in the post-farmgate sector are increasingly concerned about future supply.”
 
The SSF itself has undergone important changes, including a revision of its materiality assessment and the strengthening of its governance and technical expertise.
 
“A major piece of work this year was the revision of the materiality assessment on which the Framework is based,” Dr Williams said.
 
“We’ve made progress in expanding our metrics and refining our focus areas to better reflect industry needs and stakeholder expectations.”
 
The Steering Group also welcomed new members, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the Framework.
 
“During the year, we farewelled Ed Dunn and Belinda Dexter, both of whom were highly valued contributors,” Dr Williams said.
 
“We also welcomed Emma Foster-Geering of RM Williams and Molly Greentree of Gundagai Meat Processors. Their insights and energy have already made a positive impact.”
 
The report shows encouraging trends in animal welfare, with increased use of pain management during husbandry procedures and a rise in the proportion of sheep processed through accredited welfare systems.
 
This includes good progress on environmental metrics. Emission intensity in sheepmeat processing declined by 15%, and water use per tonne dropped by 7%, reflecting improved resource efficiency.
 
However, the industry faced headwinds, including a 6.6% decline in the gross value of sheepmeat production and a 10.3% drop for wool. Investment in wool research and development also fell by 13%.
 
Dr Williams emphasised that sustainability must be grounded in economic viability.
 
“Sustainability starts with an industry being profitable and secure for all participants,” he said.
 
“The SSF continues to evolve to ensure it remains relevant and responsive to the needs of producers, processors, and stakeholders across the value chain.”
 
The SSF is supported by Sheep Producers Australia, WoolProducers Australia, Meat & Livestock Australia, and Australian Wool Innovation.
 
It aligns with global reporting initiatives and standards, and contributes to Australia’s commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
 
To view the full report, visit: Sheep Sustainability Framework Annual Report 2025