RED Grants back South West advanced manufacturing training hub

• Regional advanced manufacturing training hub to be established
• Round 8 initiatives to unlock long-term economic and community benefits throughout the South West
• Cook Labor Government committed to providing quality jobs and business opportunities for Western Australians

A new advanced manufacturing training hub aimed at creating local jobs and keeping skills in the South West will be established under the Cook Labor Government's latest round of Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants.

The project is one of eight South West initiatives sharing $743,223 in Round 8 of the grants program, which supports local businesses and workforce development.

Picton East-based RCR Mining Technologies has received $100,000 to establish the training hub, which will boost the availability of skilled local workers in the South West.

The hub will deliver accredited block-release training through South Regional TAFE at RCR's existing machining and fitting precinct. All training equipment will be supplied and owned by the TAFE.

By co-locating industry and education, apprentices will gain hands-on experience in real production environments, reduce the need to travel to Perth for training, and strengthen the region's skilled workforce.

The Boyup Brook Co-operative Company will receive $100,000 to redevelop the former saleyards site, expanding storage and shopfront capacity to support its agricultural supplies business and the local community.

Bridgetown Winery will use an $18,223 grant to complete a new shared community cellar door, supporting small producers and wine tourism, while Newton Orchards in Manjimup will invest its $100,000 grant to expand packing capacity and grow premium cherry exports.

These projects build on strong regional investment, with 65 South West initiatives securing more than $5.6 million through the first eight rounds of RED Grants. Round 8 attracted a record 91 applications, highlighting the strength of local industry and the strong demand from businesses ready to grow, diversify, and invest.

The Cook Labor Government is investing more than $60 million over 11 years through RED Grants to back locally driven projects that create jobs, build skills, lift productivity, and deliver lasting economic and community benefits across regional Western Australia.

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:

"These grants support the kinds of locally driven projects that strengthen regional economies and create opportunities for businesses to grow and employ local people. They reflect the confidence we have in South West industries to deliver long-term benefits for their communities.

"By investing in projects that build skills, expand production and add value locally, the Cook Labor Government is helping regional businesses compete, diversify, and plan for the future. That's how we create resilient regions and sustainable jobs across Western Australia."

Comments attributed to South West Minister Don Punch:

"These RED Grants are about backing local industry to create secure jobs and build the skilled workforce the South West needs to grow. Training delivered locally means more opportunities for apprentices and greater confidence for employers.

"Investments like the advanced manufacturing training hub deliver real outcomes - more jobs, stronger businesses, and skills that stay in the region. This is about building long-term economic resilience and keeping opportunities close to home for South West families."

Comments attributed to Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:

"These grants are supporting South West businesses to grow, employ locally, and invest with confidence in the region's future.

"By linking industry and training, we're building a stronger, more resilient workforce for the South West."

Round 8 RED Grant recipients - South West