$320 million for world-class agricultural HQ in Perth

Media release
$320 million has been allocated to a new metropolitan facility for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
Last updated:
DPIRD’s Kerry Regan, Nicki Hall, Heather Brayford and Mia Carbon with Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Premier Mark McGowan

The McGowan Government has locked in $320 million for new world-class biosecurity and research facilities to protect and grow Western Australia's primary industries for future generations. 

A new metropolitan facility for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will be built on Murdoch University's Perth campus, featuring modern laboratory and technical workspaces for about 350 staff. 

It will replace outdated and interim laboratory facilities in use at South Perth - many of which date back to the 1950s - with the new permanent facility expected to be complete in 2027. 

The landmark investment backs the McGowan Government's efforts to reinvigorate agricultural research and development in the State, and deliver strong biosecurity to respond to heightened global pest and disease threats. 

The facility will be located on 11.3 hectares at Murdoch University, in the south-eastern corner of the campus, within an existing agricultural precinct. 

It will include: 

  • Cutting-edge specialist laboratories and supporting technical workspaces to support biosecurity, market access and primary industries research and development; 
  • An incident and emergency management operational centre; 
  • A glasshouse complex with glasshouses, shade houses and associated facilities; and 
  • Field plots for on-site research. 

The McGowan Government will also be working to accommodate key strategic partners at the facility, including the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre and InterGrain. 

 

Watch the announcement by Premier Mark McGowan with comments from Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan: DPIRD Biosecurity and Research Facility Announcement 22 (YouTube link)

Click here for the media statement with comments from Premier McGowan and Minister MacTiernan 

 

 

Picture caption: From left: DPIRD’s Kerry Regan, Nicki Hall, Heather Brayford and Mia Carbon with Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Premier Mark McGowan