The Western Australian Government has opened applications for Round 8 of Western Australia’s Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program, providing $5 million in funding to support local manufacturing, job creation, and economic diversification across the state’s regions.
Administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the program supports regionally led projects that aim to boost local economies through skills development, business expansion, productivity improvements, and new investment opportunities.
Since its launch in 2018, the RED Grants program has backed more than 400 projects across Western Australia, contributing to local industry growth and job creation, as revealed in a news release.
The state government said it has committed more than $60 million over 11 years to drive economic development in regional communities.
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said the program plays a key role in building strong, resilient regional economies by supporting innovation and employment opportunities in local industries, including manufacturing.
“The Cook Government is committed to investing in our regions through diversifying economies and providing quality jobs,” Minister Dawson said.
“The RED Grants program is a fantastic example of this, and it’s great to see the difference these grants are making in our community.”
One recent recipient, Kalgoorlie-based Hydramech Engineering, used a $90,000 grant to purchase a CNC Measuring Machine, enabling the company to design and manufacture equipment in-house rather than sourcing materials from Perth.
Another success story, Geraldton Building Services and Cabinets, received $100,000 in Round 7 to construct a modular building factory capable of manufacturing complete homes and accommodation units year-round. The facility is expected to create up to 20 full-time jobs, including four apprenticeships.
Minister Dawson said projects like these demonstrate the program’s tangible impact on regional development and local employment.
“These grants support initiatives that create real economic impact and employment opportunities in regional WA,” he said.
“Since 2018, the program has supported 415 projects focused on business innovation and industry diversification, workforce development, tourism expansion, Aboriginal economic development, growing primary production, and supporting vibrant communities.”
Applications for Round 8 of the RED Grants program are now open and will close on 9 January 2026.
Further details, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, are available on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website at www.dpird.wa.gov.au/REDs.
