WoolProducers Australia highlight sustainability and economic gains in call for government wool procurement policy

WoolProducers Australia today called on Australian political parties to commit to implementing a policy mirroring the progressive move by the New Zealand Government to prioritise the use of wool in government buildings. This call comes following the New Zealand Cabinet’s agreement to amend its Government Procurement Rules, effective July 1, 2025.

Under the New Zealand regulations, government agencies subject to the Procurement Rules will be expected to utilise woollen fibres where practical and appropriate in government-owned buildings for new construction projects valued at NZD$9 million or more, and for refurbishments exceeding NZD$100,000. Potential applications for strong wool include flooring, insulation, acoustic panels, and furnishings.

While acknowledging that New Zealand agencies will assess the practicality and appropriateness of using wool based on factors like whole-of-life costs, standards compliance, technical requirements, and sustainability benefits, WoolProducers views this as a significant step towards supporting their domestic wool industry and promoting the natural benefits of wool.

WoolProducers CEO, Jo Hall, said, “This decision by the New Zealand Government is practical recognition of the numerous advantages that wool offers. Wool is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibre with inherent properties such as fire resistance, superior insulation, and excellent acoustic performance. It also offers significant wellbeing benefits, contributing to healthier indoor environments.”

WoolProducers believes that a similar directive in Australia would provide a substantial boost to the Australian wool industry, particularly the strong wool sector. It would also align government procurement with broader sustainability goals and support regional economies that rely on wool production, including those that have been adversely impacted by the Labor government’s ban on live sheep exports.

Ms Hall said, “We strongly encourage the Australian Government, whoever that might be post 3 May 2025, to take decisive action and introduce a comparable mandate for the use of Australian wool in federal government buildings.”

“This would not only support our hard-working woolgrowers but also ensure that taxpayer funds are invested in a sustainable and high-performing natural fibre.”

The New Zealand policy also requires agencies to report annually to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) if they choose not to use wool, providing transparency and accountability. WoolProducers believes a similar reporting mechanism could be established in Australia and would be beneficial.

“The New Zealand Government has demonstrated leadership in recognising the value of wool. We urge the next Australian Government to follow suit and implement a policy that supports our wool industry, promotes sustainability, and delivers superior outcomes for government buildings.”

“Further, as part of Prime Minister Albanese’s five-point plan in response to the US tariffs, prioritising Australian made is one of those key points. By committing to this policy Mr Albanese would be putting his money where his mouth is.”

“It’s a policy no brainer regardless of which side of politics you’re on.” Ms Hall said.

ENDS

WoolProducers Australia contacts:

Jo Hall                                                                                                                                                                                        

CEO                                                                                                                                                                                            

0488 554 811                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

About WoolProducers’ Australia

WoolProducers plays a critical role in working closely with companies and entities funded by woolgrower funds including compulsory levies or fees for service.

Its mission is to develop constructive and profitable outcomes for woolgrowers nationally.

The agency is responsible for appointing a director to each of the Australian Wool Exchange and the Australia Wool Testing Authority, promoting good corporate governance and ensuring that the interests of growers are met.

WoolProducers maintains a working relationship with Australian Wool Innovation as the voice of woolgrower shareholders. It aims to contribute to AWI’s programs for the benefit of growers, promoting responsible use of levy funds and ensuring good corporate governance.

WoolProducers is the sole wool industry member of Animal Health Australia, and as such, carries a significant responsibility for decision making on behalf of the industry in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak.

As the only wool grower organisation with membership of the National Farmers’ Federation, WoolProducers is responsible for providing key policy advice on behalf of our members, and other wool growers, to Australia’s peak farm body.

WoolProducers also works closely with the Federal Government Departments on key issues such as animal health and welfare, biosecurity, pest management control, natural resource management, drought preparedness, emergency animal disease outbreak preparedness and industry development, including research, trade and logistics.