Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has sent a letter to Prime Minister Scott Morrison offering him a new "I Stopped These" boat trophy for his desk - this time featuring a live export ship.
PETA made the gesture as part of its international Ban Live Export Day actions and to shine the spotlight on Australia's own live export.
"We know you take pride in your current boat trophy, which ostensibly celebrates your work to stop migrant boats during your tenure as immigration minister," PETA writes in its letter.
"However, considering that boat 'push-backs' have been condemned by a United Nations expert, as they 'may intentionally put lives at risk', while a live-export ban would actually save lives, we believe that this new trophy from PETA would be more appropriate – and something you could truly be proud of."
Referring to the recent coronavirus outbreak aboard the live-export ship the Al Kuwait, PETA points out that animals aren't the only ones who suffer in the live-export trade.
"Conditions aboard not only exacerbate the risk of contracting viruses but also expose crew members to dangerous levels of ammonia, carbon dioxide, and highly flammable methane – from the animals and their waste," reads the letter.
In 2016, veterinarian Dr Lynn Simpson spoke out about human rights concerns within the industry, saying, "What shocked me most [about live export] was the disregard for humanity and the poor conditions that many seafarers are forced to endure."
PETA says that stopping the ships at the heart of a cruel industry that violates human and animal rights alike would be a move worth applauding and says it's ready to reward a compassionate decision by the federal government to end live exports for good.
The full letter to the Prime Minister can be read here.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.