- Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants amounts have increased, with up to $100,000 for growers to boost efficiency and build sustainable farming systems
- Cook Government working with industry and community to protect groundwater resources and fresh food supplies
The Cook Government has doubled the size of grants for horticulture and viticulture growers who rely on the Gnangara groundwater system, to support sustainability in the sector and the protection of this valuable water resource.
The $1.19 million Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants Program is now more accessible, with up to $100,000 available to growers, and grower co-contribution requirements to be reduced.
The grants will support Gnangara growers with the installation of water use efficiency infrastructure, including irrigation system design, soil and crop sensor technology, permanent protected cropping, and soil amelioration.
Vouchers of up to $5,000 are also available for professional advice to help develop efficient irrigation systems, adopt technology and sustainable cropping strategies.
The vouchers will help to lay foundations for successful grant applications to co-invest in water infrastructure and technology that helps farmers to grow more productive crops that boost business profitability.
The Cook Government's investment will help preserve the precious community water resource as well as allow growers to continue to produce sustainable and affordable produce for Western Australians.
For more information and to apply for a Gnangara Horticultural Water Use Efficiency Grant or voucher visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/horticulture-water-use-efficiency-grants. Applications now close 30 June 2025.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"This Government has listened to growers who depend on Gnangara groundwater and we've adapted this important program to help commercial horticulture and viticulture growers adopt more efficient irrigation strategies for the future.
"With WA's drying climate, I would encourage all growers in the area to examine how the Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants Program can help build stronger, more resilient, sustainable and profitable businesses."
As stated by Water Minister Simone McGurk:
"These grants will drive more sustainable use of groundwater for horticulture and viticulture from the Gnangara groundwater system, so the area can continue to provide fresh produce and employment opportunities close to Perth.
"The program will assist the horticulture sector with the transition to reduced groundwater use before lower water entitlements come into effect from 2028 as part of the Gnangara Groundwater Allocation Plan.
"Supporting growers to improve the design of water systems, implement soil and crop sensor technology and soil amendments to increase soil moisture holding capacity is good for their businesses and tackling the effects of climate change on water resources."
Comments attributed to Sabine Winton Wanneroo MLA:
"Wanneroo growers make a significant contribution to the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables.
"These grants will not only support our hardworking growers to make their operations more sustainable but ensure the community continues to have access to a variety of healthy and affordable produce."
