More Than $2.6 Million Boost For South West Businesses

• 22 businesses have been awarded over $2.6 million as part of the Timber Region Transition Grant
• Grant aims to foster new industries and innovative business expansion in the South West region
• Support is still available for other impacted by the end to commercial native forestry

The Western Australian Government has assisted 22 businesses in the native forestry timber region through its Timber Region Transition Grant.

A total of $2,611,491 was awarded to the South West businesses for projects which enable economic diversification and create sustainable employment opportunities within the Native Forestry Timber Region.

The grants will support projects such as installing solar panels at chalets in the Karri Valley and pioneering on-site walnut oil production in Manjimup.

Successful projects were able to demonstrate potential for positive economic impact, including job creation, enhanced regional productivity, and long-term business viability.

The Timber Region Transition Grant is the final grant for the industry and community diversification support under the $80 million Native Forestry Transition Plan.

However, support remains available for impacted businesses through the Closure of Impacted Business (CIB) program - up to $50,000 is on offer for business to conclude their operations until the end of the year.

The Business Transition Programs and Workforce Transition Programs have also been extended until the end of 2025.

For more information, see: WA.gov.au | Native Forest Transition

As stated by Forestry Minister Jackie Jarvis:

"Since September 2021, the WA Government has committed $80 million to support the transition of workers, businesses, and communities linked to the native forest industry.

"The Timber Region Transition Grant is a part of this support and while it is the final grant for industry and community diversification, other grants still remain on offer for those affected.

"Following the decision to end native forest logging, a record $350 million has been invested to establish new softwood plantations across the South West, which will create and support WA forestry jobs."

Full list of Timber Region Transition Grant recipients: