Ord Expansion Project

The State Government is working with Kimberley Agricultural Investment Ltd, traditional owners and local businesses to continue building on the $517 million Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project, one of Australia's most important developments in the north.
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The State Government is working with Kimberley Agricultural Investment Ltd, traditional owners and local business to continue building on the $517 million Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project, one of Australia's most important developments in the north.

The project includes a $322.5 million Royalties for Regions investment in key agricultural infrastructure and aims to double the size of the Ord Irrigation Scheme Area to 29,000ha.

Hailed as one of the most significant agricultural investment projects seen in the Kimberley region since the sixties, the Ord-East Kimberley Expansion project is aimed at maximising the full potential of available land and water resources in the East Kimberley.

The Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project is working closely with its traditional owner partners to leverage private sector investment to develop a world class agricultural precinct to supply produce for Australian and international markets.

The project also sets a precedent in Aboriginal engagement and maximises Aboriginal involvement. The project continually engaged the Miriuwung and Gajerrong traditional owners to develop meaningful business partnerships and employment opportunities.

Ord-East Kimberley Expansion Project – Environmental Approvals

The Ord River Irrigation Expansion Project is subject to strict environmental conditions to ensure the protection of the natural environment, nationally threatened species and water resources.

The department coordinates the management of the environmental approvals for the project.

Australian environmental approval

In September 2011, the Australian Government granted environmental approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 over the Goomig Farm Area.

Ord Kimberley Expansion Project - ​Australian environmental approval documents

Western Australian environmental approval

The Western Australian Minister for Environment gave environmental approval for agricultural development of the Goomig Farm Area (Weaber Plain) and Knox Creek Plains in May 2010.

The current conditions of the approval are contained in Ministerial Statement 938.  This includes the requirement for an environmental management program​ (listed below, including appendices) to manage environmental issues of state significance.

Ord Kimberley Expansion Project - ​Western Australian environmental approval documents