- $10 million now available in new round of the Cook Labor Government's Regional Economic Development grants
- The initiative has supported 355 regional projects, driving job and business opportunities
Regional Development Minister Don Punch opened the seventh round of the Cook Labor Government's Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program today, with a record $10 million funding available this year to support locally-driven projects in regional Western Australia.
Funding is available for projects that support jobs, expand or diversify industry, develop skills, increase business productivity and attract new investment to the State's nine regions, from the Kimberley to the Great Southern.
The latest round was opened at Foodey, a small business previously supported by the RED grants program in the South West. The Bunbury-based business offers solutions for customers who are time-poor but value taste and nutrition.
With the support of an RED Grant, Foodey has expanded its offerings to include a ready-made product that meets the needs of a range of customers including seniors, people with disability or those experiencing illness or injury.
Since 2018, the Cook Labor Government has committed more than $55 million over ten years towards the RED Grants program, diversifying regional economies and creating hundreds of new jobs in the regions.
Each of the nine Regional Development Commissions (RDC) manage the grant round process for their region.
Round seven applications are now open and close on 26 June 2024. More program information, including guidelines and application details, is available online.
Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"The Cook Government is investing in regional WA with a focus on sustainable employment, diversifying industry, developing skills and growing productivity.
"The RED Grants program supports local projects that deliver real economic impact and create more jobs throughout Western Australia.
"The program has supported 355 approved projects across the first six rounds, for initiatives such as boosting retail and commercial operations, industry development and diversification, Aboriginal industry development and tourism expansion.
"Double the usual funds are available this round, so I encourage regional businesses and organisations to examine the funding opportunities on offer through this dedicated regional program."
