- Applications now open for Round 9 of the Regional Economic Development Grants
- Up to $5 million available for locally driven projects across regional WA
- Great Southern businesses and organisations can apply for up to $200,000
The Cook Labor Government has opened Round 9 of its Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program, with up to $5 million available for projects that generate jobs and economic growth across regional Western Australia.
Eligible Great Southern businesses and organisations can apply for grants of up to $200,000 for individual projects.
Since the program began in 2018-19, more than $5.5 million has been invested in 52 projects across the Great Southern, helping local businesses and organisations expand, innovate and build regional capability.
Ocean Beach Allied Health Centre is among the program’s success stories. It used a $150,000 grant to support the development of a five-room, multidisciplinary allied health centre in Denmark, creating sustainable jobs and expanding the range of allied health services available in the Great Southern.
Westerberg Marine was awarded $93,000 in Round 3 of the RED Grants program to invest in automated machinery that diversifies and streamlines boat production. Bringing this work in-house has strengthened local manufacturing capability and boosted employment and training opportunities in the region.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the Great Southern Development Commission early to discuss their project and access support in preparing a strong application. Program guidelines and application details are available on the Commission’s website.
Applications close at 12 noon AWST on Thursday, 14 January 2027.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
“These grants are important economic enablers for regional Western Australia, and I encourage businesses and organisations across the Great Southern to apply.
“The RED Grants program helps local people with strong ideas that can create jobs, build workforce capability, improve productivity and generate new investment.
“The Cook Labor Government is proud to continue supporting locally driven projects that diversify regional economies and create lasting opportunities for regional communities.”
As stated by Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:
“The Great Southern has a strong record of turning RED Grant funding into practical projects that support local businesses, industries and communities.
“More than $5.5 million has already been invested in 52 projects across the region, helping local organisations pursue new opportunities and strengthen our economy.
“Round 9 is another valuable opportunity for Great Southern businesses and organisations to bring forward innovative projects that create jobs, build resilience and contribute to the region’s long-term prosperity.
“I strongly encourage potential applicants to contact the Great Southern Development Commission early and take advantage of its support to develop a competitive application.”
As stated by Samantha Rowe MLC:
“The RED Grants program is about helping good local ideas become projects that create jobs, grow businesses and strengthen regional economies.
“Through these grants, the Cook Labor Government is helping Great Southern businesses and organisations invest, expand and create new opportunities across a range of sectors.”
