The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has launched the Small Scale Abattoir Feasibility Voucher Program, offering a co-funding opportunity to explore and validate potential opportunities within Western Australia’s boutique meat processing sector. The announcement, updated January 31, 2025, provides a pathway for eligible businesses to access expert advice and planning from professional consultants.

The program offers vouchers of up to $10,000, requiring matched funding contribution, to assist with analysing feasibility factors related to small-scale abattoir operations. Applicants are required to attend a facilitated session with DPIRD before submitting their application. Registration for these sessions can be made by emailing SSAFvouchers@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Eligibility requirements and further program details can be found in the Program Guidelines and FAQs. Applications are open until June 30, 2025, or until funding is exhausted, and must be submitted through SmartyGrants. Inquiries can be directed to the Agribusiness Development team at agribusiness@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Relevance for Agritourism:

This program presents a significant opportunity for agritourism businesses that:

• Raise livestock and process meat for on-site consumption or direct sale to consumers.
• Are considering establishing or expanding their own small-scale abattoir to enhance control over their supply chain and ensure product quality.
• Want to explore the feasibility of offering meat processing services to other local producers.

By utilizing the voucher program, agritourism businesses can gain valuable insights into the financial viability, regulatory requirements, and operational considerations of establishing a small-scale abattoir. This can inform strategic decision-making and help businesses make informed investments in their future.

The Small Scale Abattoir Feasibility Voucher Program offers a valuable resource for agritourism businesses seeking to enhance their meat processing capabilities and support local food systems, we encourage our members to explore this opportunity and consider how it can contribute to the sustainability and success of their operations.

The WAAA encourages members to review the program guidelines and contact DPIRD for further information.

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.