Live sheep exports will be banned to, or through, the Middle East from June 1 to September 14.

The Australian Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has announced new permanent requirements for live sheep exports following the finalisation of a regulation impact statement (RIS).

The department said the changes, to apply from May 1, would improve animal welfare with a focus on conditions to manage the risk of heat stress during the northern hemisphere summer (May 1 to October 31 October).