- Applications for Round 8 of the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program now open
- $5 million in funding available for locally-driven projects to build thriving regions and communities
- Peel regional businesses and organisations encouraged to apply
The Cook Labor Government has opened Round 8 of its Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program which will see $5 million invested in regional projects that generate jobs and economic growth.
Funding is now available for locally-driven projects that support jobs, expand or diversify industry, develop skills or capability, increase business productivity and attract new investment to the regions.
The Cook Government is investing more than $60 million over 11 years towards the RED Grants program to stimulate economic growth and development in regional Western Australia.
Recent success stories include Kanyana Engineering which used a $100,000 RED Grant in round three to invest in high-tech fabrication machinery, boosting production, safety and competitiveness in mining and rail supply. The project created new local jobs, upskilled workers and increased company revenue.
Mandurah Indoor Rock Climbing, also received a $60,000 RED Grant in Round 7 to expand its facility with a state-of-the-art bouldering area, creating 11 local jobs and supporting a safe, inclusive space for fitness and community connection.
Eligible applicants can apply for RED Grants funding of up to $250,000 for individual projects in the Peel region. To-date, 42 projects over seven rounds of RED grants, have been delivered in Peel by the Peel Development Commission totalling in excess of $5 million.
Applications for Round 8 are now open and close on 9 January 2026.
As stated by Peel Minister Jessica Stojkovski:
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to investing in projects that contribute to strong and sustainable regional communities.
"I am proud to support the Peel region through the RED Grants program, which empowers local businesses and organisations to stimulate job creation and drive economic growth. By investing in projects that create jobs, build skills, and diversify our industries, we're helping to secure a stronger, more resilient future for Peel.
"I encourage all eligible regional businesses and community members to consider opportunities where RED Grants funding could support local projects which make a difference to Peel's local economy and community and help shape our region's success story."
Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"These grants are significant economic enablers for regional WA and I encourage businesses and organisations in the Peel region to apply.
"The RED Grants program has led to many success stories, the Cook Government is proud to support this program which is helping create more jobs and opportunities across regional WA."
As stated by Peel Development Commission Chair Myri Riddy:
"Applying for a RED Grant is a powerful way for Peel businesses to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. These grants not only provide vital financial support, but also help local enterprises expand, diversify, and build resilience in a changing economy.
"By investing in our region's talent and ideas, the RED Grants program is helping Peel businesses create jobs, develop new skills, and attract fresh investment, making our community stronger and more competitive for the future."
As stated by Mandurah MLA Rhys Williams:
"The Cook Government is committed to backing projects that strengthen local economies and support sustainable growth across our regions.
"Through the RED Grants program, we're investing in Mandurah's future by helping local businesses and organisations create jobs, build skills, and drive new opportunities.
"These grants give local people and businesses the tools they need to innovate and succeed building a stronger, more resilient community for the years ahead."
As stated by Dawesville MLA Lisa Munday:
"I'm proud to see the Cook Government continuing its strong support for regional WA through the RED Grants program.
"With $5 million now available in Round 8, this is a fantastic opportunity for Peel businesses and organisations to bring forward innovative, locally-driven projects that create jobs, boost productivity and help our region thrive.
"I strongly encourage eligible applicants in Peel to apply and take advantage of this funding to help shape a strong economic future for our community.
As stated by Darling Range MLA Hugh Jones:
"The Cook Labor Government's RED Grants program invests in local projects run by local people, delivering opportunities for growth in our regions that flow throughout the community at a grassroots level.
"I have seen the advantages these grants offer organisations and their communities, creating new opportunities for services, employment and a stronger local economy, and I strongly encourage all eligible organisations to consider applying in this round."
