Great news for farmers’ markets and the agritourism sector! The Cook Government has announced a new grant program designed to support the growth and sustainability of farmers’ markets across Western Australia.

Funding Details

Grants of up to $50,000 will be available to both metropolitan and regional farmers’ markets. This funding can be used to cover a range of operational costs and enhance business sustainability.

Why Farmers’ Markets Matter

Farmers’ markets play a vital role in connecting producers directly with consumers. They offer a vibrant hub for local food and artisan businesses, showcasing everything from fresh produce and seafood to honey, olive oil, and handcrafted gifts. For agritourism, these markets offer:

• Authentic Local Experiences: They provide visitors with a genuine taste of WA’s agricultural bounty and a chance to interact directly with the people behind the products.
• Increased Sales Channels: Farmers’ markets offer an additional avenue for agritourism businesses to sell their products and reach a wider audience.
• Community Building: They foster a sense of community and connection between producers, consumers, and visitors.
• Tourism Drawcards: Many farmers’ markets have become popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors to regional towns and adding to the vibrancy of local communities.

How to Apply

Details on the application process, eligibility criteria, and deadlines will be announced soon. WAAA will keep members informed as more information becomes available. In the meantime, start thinking about how your business or local farmers’ market could benefit from this funding opportunity!

Words by:

Andy Burns

Andy Burns is a driving force in the Western Australian tourism industry, currently serving as Vice-President of the WAAA. He’s the Founder of Scott Aussie Tourism Marketing, a South West WA-based agency specialising in helping tourism businesses thrive in the digital age. Scott Aussie offers a full range of marketing services, from strategic planning and branding to content creation, social media management, and AI-powered solutions. Andy’s deep understanding of the tourism landscape, combined with his expertise in destination marketing and community engagement, makes him a sought-after advisor, speaker, and trainer. He’s a regular presenter at industry conferences and workshops, sharing his insights on topics ranging from digital marketing strategy to the future of tourism. Andy is also a member of the Manjimup Tourist Bureau and a Councillor at the Shire of Manjimup. His previous leadership roles include six years on the board of Tourism Rockingham and five years as Chair of a Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attraction (DBCA) advisory committee.