The initiative includes a $30 million support package that will assist farmers with some of the costs of putting in shade structures and planting and fencing off shade trees and shelter belts.

Currently the Standards and Guidelines for Animal Welfare for Cattle and Sheep, which inform the enforcement of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act in NSW, only require shade to be considered in construction of facilities for livestock.

“As climate change bites and temperatures soar across the state, the Greens are calling for new laws which make it mandatory for livestock to have access to shade during hot weather,” Ms Faehrmann said.

"The reality is that under the current rules farms animals across NSW are currently in paddocks with little to no shade and this is compromising their welfare.

“While the majority of farmers are of course doing their best, it is alarming to see the number of cattle and sheep without cover in extremely hot conditions as you drive through regional areas.

"Providing shade for livestock is essential to animal welfare and productivity. In hot weather, access to shade is as important for animal welfare as access to water and feed and it is time this was recognised in law.

“This plan is about helping farmers to look after their animals and that is why we have also announced $30 million in transition funding to assist farmers with some of the costs of putting in shade structures and planting and fencing off shade trees and shelter belts.”

The Greens are calling for:

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