- Nine
Wheatbelt projects to share in $766,000 in Regional Economic Development (RED)
Grant funding
- Investment
supports job creation and business growth across agribusiness, tourism,
manufacturing, and Aboriginal enterprise
- Cook Labor
Government committed to supporting regional businesses and communities
Nine Wheatbelt projects will share in $766,000 in funding under Round 8
of the Cook Labor Government's Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants
program, supporting business expansion, local job creation, and economic
diversification.
The RED Grants program is investing $60.85 million over 11 years into
locally driven projects that stimulate economic growth across regional Western Australia.
Round 8 highlights the breadth of opportunity across the Wheatbelt, from
advanced manufacturing and value-adding in agriculture to tourism and
Aboriginal enterprise.
In Wongan Hills, a $115,000 grant will support the construction of a new
mechanical workshop, expanding local vehicle servicing, introducing new
capabilities, and creating training opportunities for the local workforce.
Tourism will also receive a boost, with new eco-accommodation in
Mukinbudin set to attract visitors to the eastern Wheatbelt, alongside a
boutique distillery and café in Brookton that will strengthen the region's
hospitality offering.
Several projects will enhance local production and value-adding,
including the expansion of timber processing in Northam, a new fruit processing
facility in Gingin, and increased honey production to support access to
higher-value markets.
Investment in innovation and sustainability is also reflected through
expanded livestock feed production designed to reduce emissions, while a new
Aboriginal-owned maintenance enterprise will create jobs and deliver services
across the region.
Together, these projects reflect the strength and diversity of the
Wheatbelt economy, supporting local businesses to grow while creating new
opportunities across multiple industries.
Comments attributed to
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Regional Economic Development Grants are
helping businesses right across WA to grow, diversify and create local jobs.
"This program continues to unlock new
opportunities in our regions by backing innovative, locally driven projects
that strengthen industries, attract investment, and support long-term economic
resilience.
"By investing in regional communities in the
Wheatbelt, the Cook Labor Government is ensuring the benefits of economic
growth are shared across the entire State."
Comments attributed to
Wheatbelt Minister Sabine Winton:
"RED Grants are making a real difference on
the ground in the Wheatbelt, supporting local businesses to expand, create jobs,
and strengthen their communities.
"This round highlights the diversity of the
Wheatbelt economy, with projects across agribusiness, tourism, manufacturing,
and Aboriginal enterprise all contributing to the region's future.
"By supporting these locally led initiatives,
we are helping to build a more vibrant, resilient and sustainable Wheatbelt."
Successful Round 8 RED Grant recipients -
Wheatbelt
