- Three Mid West projects to receive $606,046 Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant funding
- Cook Government investments support regional job creation in manufacturing and agribusiness sectors
Three Mid West projects will share in $606,046 funding which will help build regional business resilience and diversify the economy under Round 6 of the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program.
The RED Grants program is a Cook Government initiative investing $50.85 million over nine years toward locally driven projects to stimulate economic growth in the regions.
Geraldton-based Dongara Marine will use its $249,890 grant to increase its vessel building capability in region. The funding will be used to expand their facilities and for the acquisition of two cranes needed for the Enhanced Lifting Capability Project and to supply the Australian Defence Maritime Assurance Program in the future.
Abrolhos Island Oysters will use their $214,645 RED Grant to create a new oyster industry for Western Australia. The funding will assist with the completion of its farming and processing facilities before the 2024-25 harvest season kicks off later this month.
Illegal Tender Rum Co. has been awarded $141,510 for its Sustainable Harvest project, which will see fruit waste from the Mid West transformed into value-added products, including hard cider and non-alcoholic beverages, and the establishment of a producer marketplace.
Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"Once again, the RED Grants continue to support local businesses to develop, grow and diversify to better service regional communities.
"These projects will help to build stronger local economies by developing value-added products and boosting local manufacturing capabilities, which in turn creates new job opportunities and career pathways the Mid West region."
Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:
"It's great to see the Cook Government supporting regional business and enterprise through the RED Grant program.
"Congratulations to the successful recipients. I am excited to see these projects get off the ground and I thank Minister Punch and the Mid West Development Commission for their support of local business."
