A WOOL Industries Australia forum looks to have laid the groundwork for strategies to future-proof the sector, including through industry body rationalisation.

WIA chairman David Michelle said although not a central focus, the proposed AWEX-AWTA merger was discussed, highlighting the need for collaboration and efficiency.

“The forum has advanced dialogue on this matter, emphasizing cohesion and strategic alignment,” he said.

Mr Michell said the forum on 28 March was a significant step in addressing key challenges in the wool industry, fostering constructive discussions and laying the groundwork for actionable strategies.

“Participants showed a strong sense of responsibility to collaborate, with Wool Industries Australia (WIA) playing a pivotal role in coordinating efforts and driving initiatives,” he said.

Mr Michell said amidst a backdrop of global economic uncertainty, rising production costs, and challenges posed by weather events such as droughts and floods, the forum provided a platform for robust discussions on strategies to address these pressing issues.

“Leaders shared insights on managing low wool demand and production levels while reaffirming their commitment to positioning Australian wool as a competitive force within the global natural fibre market.

“Key outcomes from the forum included a renewed focus on customer needs, acknowledging the growing trend of consumers favouring sustainable and natural fibres,” he said in a media statement.

“Participants highlighted the importance of aligning wool certification schemes, such as the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) and the Australian Wool Sustainability Standard (AWSS), to improve market access and increase customer confidence.”

Mr Michell said efforts to address labour shortages, innovate wool harvesting technologies, and streamline market reporting practices were also prioritized.

“Strong support was voiced for collaboration across industry bodies to develop unified communication strategies and counter negative narratives.

“This collective approach reflects the wool sector’s shared vision of delivering quality, sustainability, and value to stakeholders,” he said.

Mr Michell said the forum demonstrated the industry’s determination to tackle challenges head-on and harness emerging opportunities.

“The discussions on weather resilience, customer focus, and advocacy efforts reflect the leadership and vision required to position wool as the fibre of choice for future generations.”

He said as the wool industry continues to navigate an ever-changing landscape, the forum’s collaborative spirit underscores its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity.

“Wool leaders aim to reconvene during Wool Week to build on the progress made and sustain the momentum toward a unified and prosperous future for wool.”

Mr Michell said while WIA acts as a unifying force and catalyst for change, commercial outcomes depend on decisions by relevant boards.