Vets have called for urgent action on Australian live export ships destined for the Middle East to ensure an end to horrific cruelty.
Shocking footage of sheep dying in sweltering conditions on a ship in August last year has sparked widespread calls for change in the industry.
In response, Agriculture Minister David Littleproud launched a veterinarian-led review into the northern summer trade, as well as an audit of the independent regulator which sits within his department.
Australian Veterinary Association president Paula Parker says the system has failed and any deficient livestock export standards need urgent review.
"Action must be taken immediately to provide assurance of animal welfare on board live export ships to the Middle East," Dr Parker said.
"Appropriate standards must be in place and enforced to ensure horrific animal welfare outcomes like those depicted never occur again."
Many are calling for the industry to be shut down.
Almost 50,000 people have signed independent senator Derryn Hinch's online petition to ban live exports.
Former health minister Sussan Ley has also backed phasing out the industry, prompting Liberal Democrats leader David Leyonhjelm to announce his party will run against her at the next election.
The government has stared down calls for a ban, pledging to clean up the trade rather than abolish it.
