WA grants to drive regional economic development

The Western Australian government has announced a new investment of $22.5 million in community-led projects that drive job creation and economic growth in regional WA, as part of its 2018/19 budget.

More than $550,000 will be made available every year in each of the nine regions to stimulate economic activity and community initiatives at a local level through Regional Economic Development Grants.  The scheme forms part of the McGowan Government’s $4 billion job-creating Royalties for Regions investment across regional WA.

The grants will boost investment in local regional projects that contribute to population and economic growth initiatives, local marketing and innovation pilots, and importantly are driven by the community.

Program guidelines will be available and applications will open through the Regional Development Commissions by the middle of the year.

Western Australia’s Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan noted that “Driving economic growth and jobs in regional WA requires a tapestry of projects; from multimillion dollar strategic infrastructure to small, community-led initiatives.

“The Regional Economic Development Grants Scheme will support projects that make a real contribution to local communities, with a quick lead time to spark immediate economic activity in each region.

“RED Grants are a critical part of the McGowan Government’s commitment to using Royalties for Regions to drive jobs and economic development on the ground in the regions.”