Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls has announced funding of $145,000 from the Pilbara Regional Grants Scheme to support the Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation’s biodiesel manufacturing business.
Visiting the corporation in Tom Price today, Mr Grylls said the biodiesel project represented an excellent opportunity for the local indigenous community.
“I’m delighted that Royalties for Regions can support a project that will achieve such strong community and regional development outcomes,” he said.
“This project will result in ongoing employment for six indigenous Western Australians and provide industrial skills training that will assist others to move into employment in the mining sector.”
The Minister said the project involved recycling potential hazardous waste products into saleable biodiesel and would provide local indigenous communities with fuel for heavy machinery and power generation.
The Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation also has a partnership arrangement with the Shire of Ashburton to be their preferred biodiesel supplier.
“Importantly, the profits from this business will stay within the indigenous communities of the Pilbara, funding further social and economic development.” Mr Grylls said.
The biodiesel manufacturing project, which has a total value of $877,000, has also attracted funding of $180,000 from CDEP and Job Services Australia, $24,000 from Aboriginal and Economic Development and $78,000 from Rio Tinto, as well as in excess of $250,000 in support from the mining company.
The Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation contributed $450,000 towards the cost of the project.
Minister's office: 9213 7000