​​​​Frequently Asked Questions

Completing the NWD allows you to clearly communicate the mulesing status of your wool at sale, including whether pain relief was used. This helps buyers assess your wool accurately and may improve market access or pricing opportunities, particularly where specific mulesing information is required. Providing a declaration also avoids your wool being listed as Not Declared (ND) in the sale catalogue.

The NWD must be completed and signed by the owner or manager of the property. A wool classer may fill in the form’s details, but only under clear direction from the owner/manager. By signing the NWD, the owner/manager agrees to participate in the NWD Integrity Programme (NWD-IP), which includes possible selection for audit. Selling agents, buyers, shearers, or other representatives cannot sign the NWD.‎ Signing confirms that the information provided is accurate and truthful.

Mistakes can happen. If any issues are identified before the sale, AWEX administration staff will contact your selling agent, who will in turn reach out to you so the information can be corrected before the wool is sold. Using the WoolClip app is recommended, as it helps improve accuracy and traceability and reduces the chance of errors.

NWD forms can be accessed through your selling agent, AWEX directly, or downloaded from the AWEX website at https://www.awex.com.au/National-Wool-Declaration/

You can use WoolClip, AWEX’s online platform and mobile app, to submit your NWD. Simply log in to the app or website at www.woolclip.com.au

When declaring mulesing status, assess each mob carefully and declare the category that accurately reflects the sheep’s treatment. If a mob contains a mix of sheep with different statuses, use the lowest status in the hierarchy: NM > LN > AA > M > ND.
For example:
• If a mob contains both NM and AA sheep, declare the mob as AA.
• If a mob contains LN and M sheep, declare it as M.

Initial Contact: A Third Party auditor will contact you a few weeks before a planned visit to arrange a suitable time.
The Audit Itself: The auditor will need to physically examine a sample of the mob to verify its mulesing status. This involves running the sheep through a race so the auditor can check for scars consistent with mulesing.