Manufacturing-focused projects are among ten initiatives in the Peel region to share in $1.104 million under Round 8 of the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program, according to the WA Government, as part of efforts to diversify the regional economy and strengthen local industry capability.
In a news release, the WA Government said the funding forms part of a broader $60.85 million investment over 11 years aimed at supporting job creation and economic growth across regional areas, with successful Peel projects spanning manufacturing, tourism, hospitality and Aboriginal-owned enterprise initiatives.
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said the program was designed to support locally driven economic activity.
“These RED Grants offer a unique opportunity to diversify our regional economies and create new jobs and sustainable employment opportunities,” he said.
He added that the range of funded projects demonstrated the impact of targeted investment. “The diverse range of Peel projects demonstrates how targeted investment can lift productivity, support industry expansion and open new markets, while delivering real benefits for local workers and communities,” Dawson said.
Manufacturing projects feature prominently in this round, including Mitchell’s Livestock Transport, which received $180,000 to establish a livestock trailer fabrication and maintenance workshop.
The project will enable fabrication and refurbishment of trailers and cattle pens, alongside major repairs to prime mover trucks, and is expected to create 2.5 full-time jobs and one apprenticeship or traineeship within six months of completion.
In another manufacturing-related investment, Mandurah Glass Service secured $180,000 for a vertical CNC machine to automate precision glass processing.
The upgrade is expected to reduce outsourcing and manual handling while improving safety and productivity, with the project forecast to create two full-time roles and two apprenticeship or trainee positions within 12 months.
Expedition Holdings Aus Pty Ltd also received $59,818 to upgrade its Mandurah facility with fabrication equipment and workflow improvements to increase production capacity and efficiency, supporting growth in aluminium manufacturing for domestic and export markets.
Peel Minister Jessica Stojkovski said the grants support local industry growth and regional resilience. “These grants represent a significant investment in expanding Peel’s economy, empowering local industries to create jobs, strengthen capacity and drive regional economic resilience,” she said.
She added that the projects reflect the region’s economic diversity. “From manufacturing and tourism to hospitality and Aboriginal-owned enterprises, these projects reflect the strong and vibrant nature of Peel’s business community,” Stojkovski said.
Other recipients include tourism and hospitality projects such as accommodation expansions at The Drakesbrook Hotel Motel, Lake Navarino Holiday Park upgrades, and the Forest Discovery Centre, alongside a mobile cuisine initiative by Boodja Ventures to support remote tourism and regional events.
Mandurah MLA Rhys Williams said the funding supports long-term economic growth. “Through the RED Grants program, we’re investing in Mandurah’s future by helping local businesses and organisations create jobs, build skills, and drive new opportunities,” he said.
Dawesville MLA Lisa Munday said the projects will support regional development. “With [the] announcement, Peel businesses and organisations can bring forward innovative, locally-driven projects that create jobs, boost productivity and help our region thrive,” she said.
Darling Range MLA Hugh Jones said the program supports grassroots economic development. “The RED Grants program has invested in local projects run by local people, delivering opportunities for growth in our regions that flow throughout the community at a grassroots level,” he said.
The WA Government said the latest round of funding continues its commitment to supporting regional diversification and strengthening industries that underpin local employment and economic resilience in Western Australia, with the Peel region, including Mandurah, a key focus area.
