The WA Government’s new grants program for farmers’ markets is set to help primary producers better connect with the buying public. Photo: Government of Western Australia.
The Western Australian Government has opened applications for a grant system, intending to give the state’s farmers’ markets a boost.
Operators can apply for up to $50,000 under the Cook Labor Government’s Farmers’ Market Grant Scheme.
The Commonwealth-first program offers funding to assist farmers’ markets with their business operations and the sustainability of those operations.
These markets give farmers and food and beverage producers a chance to connect directly with their customers, showcasing their locally made produce while cutting out the middlemen of supermarkets or other retailers.
“Farmers’ markets play a valuable role in our communities, providing a platform for farmers and specialty food and beverage producers to showcase their produce while allowing customers to have direct access to fresh produce and local products from the producers themselves,” Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said.
The grant is a one-off chance that existing markets can sign up for or that new markets can apply for to get on their feet.
A large component of the program is the upskilling of market operators with a funded one-day program developed and delivered by the Western Australian Farmers’ Markets Association. The course is designed to improve the performance of markets and the sustainability of the businesses and farms taking part in those forums.
“I’m incredibly proud that our government is providing training and grants to support farmers’ markets and the growth of the sector in this Australian-first initiative that will help set WA farmers’ markets up for long-term success,” Minister Jarvis said.
The second stage of the program allows operators to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to assist with planning and compliance, infrastructure, marketing, communications and market development.
The grant scheme is partnered with the Cook Government’s investments in the state’s value-adding industries through programs such as the Agrifood and Beverage Voucher program, Value Add Investment Grants, and Buy West Eat Best initiative.
More information regarding grant applications can be found on the government’s website.
