The Australian Council of Wool Exporters and Processors (ACWEP) represents wool buying firms traditionally sourcing wool through the auction system, as well as Australian early-stage wool processing companies.

Today, most Australian wool is exported in its greasy form or as scoured or carbonised wool.

Recognised by the government and industry stakeholders as the national representative voice for auction buyers and early-stage processors, ACWEP advocates for its members and represents their interests on industry committees and in sector-wide discussions.

ACWEP was formed in 2006 through the merger of the Australian Council of Wool Exporters (ACWE) and the Australian Wool Processors’ Council (AWPC).

Historical Background:

• Auction buyers have been organised in state and regional associations since the 1890s, with the first national representative body established in 1946. It became the Australian Council of Wool Exporters in 1986.

• The Australian Wool Processors’ Council was formed in 1988 through the merger of the Federation of Australian Wool Scourers & Carbonisers and the Wool Textile Manufacturers of Australia.