- Eight Gascoyne projects receiving funding through latest Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants
- More than $700,000 will flow into the region
- Projects span tourism, hospitality, marine services, retail, accommodation, and local manufacturing to support regional economic opportunities and jobs
The Cook Labor Government is backing job creation, tourism growth and industry diversification across the Gascoyne, with eight local projects receiving funding through Round 8 of the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program.
More than $700,000 in RED grant funding will flow into the region to support initiatives led by local businesses and the Shire of Carnarvon, unlocking millions of dollars in private investment and strengthening the long-term economic resilience of Gascoyne communities.
The projects span tourism, hospitality, marine services, retail, accommodation, and local manufacturing, demonstrating strong confidence in the region's economic future.
A transformative upgrade to one of the Gascoyne's most in-demand tourism operators is among the local initiatives.
Project CoralX2 by Ningaloo Reef Adventure Camps will double the capacity of the Coral Bay accommodation provider from 1,750 to 3,500 visitors per year, replacing ageing tents with high-wind rated glamping units, adding staff accommodation and improving ablutions and dining facilities.
The project is expected to create up to three new fulltime roles, broaden youth and educational tourism experiences, and more than double the business's current annual spend with local tour operators.
The RED Grants program is a State Government initiative that is investing $60.85 million over 11 years in locally driven projects to stimulate economic growth and development in regional Western Australia.
Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The Gascoyne is one of Western Australia's most dynamic and unique regions and these RED Grants are designed to support local businesses and Shires to seize new opportunities.
"These eight projects will create jobs, attract visitors, improve essential services and drive stronger, more diverse local economies.
"From expanding tourism offerings in Carnarvon to improving food security in Exmouth and building crucial workforce accommodation, these initiatives reflect the innovation and resilience of regional businesses.
"The Cook Labor Government is proud to back projects that deliver real, long-term benefits for the Gascoyne community."
Comments attributed to Gascoyne Minister Hannah Beazley:
"The Gascoyne projects supported through these RED Grants demonstrate clear regional impact and strong community alignment.
"These initiatives will support local jobs, improve supply chain resilience, strengthen tourism experiences, and encourage further investment into the Gascoyne.
"Parts of the Gascoyne have had an incredibly challenging time due to a series of natural disasters, and this funding to support local businesses will build on the resilience the community has demonstrated.
"This funding also supports projects in the region that unlock additional private capital, expand local business capacity and improve essential workforce and community infrastructure."
Gascoyne Round 8 RED Grant Projects:
- Ningaloo Reef Adventure Camps - Project CoralX2 (Coral Bay)
Upgrade of accommodation and facilities to double visitor capacity, create up to three jobs and significantly boost local tourism activity.
Grant: $150,000
- Sweet Ningaloo - Store Expansion (Exmouth & Coral Bay)
Power upgrades, commercial space renovation and new equipment to increase artisan gelato production capacity by up to 78%.
Grant: $100,000
- Jetwave Quayside - Marina Refuelling Upgrade (Exmouth)
Installation of Exmouth Marina's first onwater unleaded petrol facility, improving safety, environmental performance and marine tourism efficiency.
Grant: $50,000
- Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort - Workforce Accommodation (Exmouth)
Construction of 11 onsite staff accommodation units enabling the resort's broader $25 million redevelopment plans.
Grant: $50,000
- Kempglaze Glass and Aluminium - Facility Upgrade (Carnarvon)
Expansion of a local glazing and aluminium workshop, enabling increased manufacturing, showroom improvements and up to two new jobs.
Grant: $100,000
- Shire of Carnarvon - Tourism Product Development & Incubator Program (Carnarvon)
Purchase of a 12seat 4WD tour bus to expand guided tourism experiences and support Aboriginal and emerging operators.
Grant: $115,000
- Ningaloo Harvest IGA - Storage Expansion (Exmouth)
Major increase in food storage capacity to strengthen local food security, support peak tourism demand and create two jobs.
Grant: $50,000
- Telomac Tackle and Camping - Store Extension (Carnarvon)
Retail expansion to meet increased demand for fishing, camping and outdoor equipment, creating two new jobs.
Grant: $111,000
