19/1/05
The Gallop Government has established a scheme to help create new jobs and opportunities in regional Western Australia.
The $500,000 ‘Regional Industry Assistance Scheme’ will provide grants for small to medium-sized businesses to develop business plans and conduct relocation feasibility studies, market analysis and marketing plans.
Launching the scheme in Port Hedland today, State Development Minister Clive Brown said the Gallop Government had a strong record on job creation and was determined to do more to create new opportunities.
“The Gallop Government has a plan that is working to grow the economy, build stronger communities and protect our unique environment,” he said.
“Over the last four years, we have created more than 80,000 jobs, halved youth unemployment and brought the overall unemployment rate down to a record 4.3 per cent.
“However, more work can be done and the Regional Industry Assistance Scheme aims to assist small to medium sized business create new jobs and opportunities in regional WA.”
Mr Brown said assistance would be available in two categories:
Category 1: Business plans, relocation feasibility studies, market analysis and marketing plans
The value of assistance will be up to a maximum of $10,000. Assistance funds will be paid upon evidence a consultant has been paid and that contracted projects and services have been undertaken.
Category 2: New and existing small businesses seeking small grants
Grants will be to a maximum of $10,000 for the purchase of or lease of equipment and other goods essential to the operation of the business. In most cases, assistance will be limited to 75 per cent of the total costs of approved goods and services.
The Department of Industry and Resources will administer the Regional Industry Assistance Scheme. For information on how to apply, contact 9327 5555.
Minister's office: 9222 9699
