The appointments come at a time of increasing demand for credible, transparent sustainability data across global supply chains, with the SSF playing an important role in supporting industry, markets and stakeholders.
The SSF is the Australian sheep and wool industry's national framework for measuring and reporting on sustainability priorities across the Australian sheep and wool sector.
It brings together data from across the value chain to provide a transparent, evidence-based view of industry progress against key environmental, animal welfare, people and economic indicators.
Following an extensive recruitment process, five new members have been appointed to the SSF Steering Group.
Renata Paliskis from Wheatbelt NRM has been appointed chair, joined by Brydie Creagh from AWEX as supply chain representative, Tanisha Shields from Rabobank as finance representative, Brett Smith from Elders as producer representative and David Sackett, formerly of Growth Farms Australia, as corporate producer representative.
They join existing members representing key parts of the value chain, including retail, wool processing and meat processing.
With the steering group now restored to full complement, it is well positioned to guide the ongoing development of the Framework.
“Strong, transparent data is essential to supporting market access and maintaining industry confidence,” Ms Paliskis said.
“The SSF is well placed to support this, and our focus will be on strengthening its relevance, consistency and utilisation across the supply chain.”
Outgoing chair Scott Williams, who has led the steering group since 2022, said the SSF had become an important asset for the industry.
“The SSF plays a critical role in providing credible, transparent data on industry sustainability,” Mr Williams said.
“I'm confident the new steering group is well placed to continue building its value across the supply chain.”
Lachlan Monsbourgh will also step down from the steering group after five years of contribution, with both members concluding their terms in April.
More information about the SSF is available at www.sheepsustainabilityframework.com.au.
