A panel of experts has been announced to oversee the phase out of the live sheep export trade.

The Australian Labor Party pledged to phase out the practice, following the deaths of 2400 sheep aboard a Middle Eastern ship due to heat stress in 2017.

But farming organisations have urged the government to backtrack on plans to end the industry, with fears cattle exports could be next.

Federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt told Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings that’s not happening.

Press PLAY to hear the full interview with Murray Watt

Nationals Leader David Littleproud says WA Senators need to step up to protect the industry.

“It’s my job to make sure the Western Australian voices are heard and the national party will stand firm on that,” Mr Littleproud told Gary Adshead.

Press PLAY to hear the full interview with David Littleproud

Getty Images: Lauzla