- Total funding for Western Dairy initiatives now more than $2 million over four years
- Investment to support reduction of nutrient loss from dairy farms into nearby waterways and estuaries
- Jointly funded by the Cook Government and Dairy Australia
The health of Western Australia's rivers and estuaries will be further safeguarded for future generations thanks to a major funding boost for sustainable farming initiatives.
More than $2 million will be invested over four years in the Healthy Estuaries WA program, supporting improved effluent management and broader sustainable farming practices.
The project is being delivered by Western Dairy in partnership with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, regional catchment groups, and dairy farmers.
The Cook Government committed $1.024 million to support the initiative over four years, with Western Dairy and Dairy Australia jointly contributing a further $1.024 million over the remaining three years.
This next phase builds on more than eight years of collaborative work to strengthen effluent management across the dairy industry.
Dairy farm effluent is a potential highrisk source of nutrients entering groundwater and nearby waterways, which can compromise the health of local rivers and estuaries. When managed effectively, however, effluent is a valuable onfarm resource that supports soil health and productivity.
The funding will support dairy farms located around the seven most atrisk estuaries in South West Western Australia, including the Peel-Harvey Estuary, Leschenault Estuary, Vasse-Geographe waterways, Hardy Inlet, Wilson Inlet, Torbay Inlet and Oyster Harbour.
There are an estimated 88 dairy farms operating across these priority catchments, out of a total of 99 dairy farms in WA.
Dairy Australia is the national body for the dairy industry, supporting farm businesses and driving innovation across the sector, and primarily funded by the Dairy Services Levy.
For more information visit estuaries.dwer.wa.gov.au
As stated by Water, Climate Resilience and South West Minister Don Punch:
"This is a great example of government and industry working together to protect our waterways while supporting sustainable farming practices.
"By securing matching funding from Dairy Australia, we're doubling the impact of our investment in Healthy Estuaries WA and building on many years of collaboration with the dairy industry.
"Effluent management is critical to reducing nutrient runoff into our estuaries, and this project will help farmers adopt practical, sciencebacked solutions on their farms."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Through investing in the Healthy Estuaries WA initiative and partnering with Dairy Australia, the Cook Government is ensuring that farmers can continue to lead the way in sustainable land management.
"Partnering with national industry through this program will ensure the agricultural industry continues to incorporate leading standards.
"This program highlights how government and industry can collaborate, delivering tangible benefits for local communities, the environment and the dairy sector."
As stated by Western Dairy chair Andrew Jenkins:
"The Healthy Estuaries WA funding enables a strong focus on effluent and nutrient management across WA dairy farms, with ongoing improvements in both on-farm practices and supporting infrastructure.
"These changes are helping to reduce nutrient run-off and, in turn, deliver positive outcomes for the natural environment.
"Effluent and whole-of-farm nutrient management remain key priorities, delivering clear and practical value that supports Western Dairy's commitment to farm profitability, long-term sustainability and industry engagement."
