The state government has announced it will spend $17 million to construct new sheep saleyards at Katanning and $2.2 million to kick start the replacement of the Boyanup cattle facilities.
The state government has announced it will spend $17 million to construct new sheep saleyards at Katanning and $2.2 million to kick start the replacement of the Boyanup cattle facilities.
The Shire of Plantagenet is also set to receive $2.3 million to clear debt from cattle saleyards at Mt Barker.
Under the plan, Katanning and Plantagenet shires will continue to own and operate the facilities.
The new Katanning saleyards will be built away from the town centre.
The Shire of Capel has indicated support for provision of saleyard services at Boyanup to be funded by the private sector and the state.
Premier Colin Barnett said the funding highlighted the state government's commitment to WA's agricultural sector.
"The livestock industries are a key part of the regional WA economy and saleyards continue to be a trading hub for producers, restockers, agents, processors, transporters and exporters," Mr Barnett said.
"The livestock industry and the regional community have been calling for improvements to the State's regional saleyards for many years."
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said the funding commitment for regional sites followed the opening of the $54million Muchea Livestock Centre earlier this year.
"This investment will help ensure WA's major saleyards feature high standards of occupational health and safety, environmental management and animal welfare," Mr Redman said.
"It will provide for contemporary facilities to ensure stock are efficiently processed for sale and presented in optimal condition."
The WA Farmers Federation has welcomed the funding.
WAFarmers Meat Section President, Jeff Murray, noted that the Barnett Government went to the
last election promising to progress the WA Saleyard Strategy, which has already resulted in the
opening of the $54million Muchea Livestock Centre earlier this year.
"WAFarmers worked hard to lobby for these positive outcomes, which will deliver a much-needed
boost to the State's saleyard facilities," said Mr Murray.
"The State Government's new commitment of $21.5million will enable the livestock industry to
continue working towards further improving animal welfare and worker safety.
"Especially in light of the current drought, WAFarmers is calling upon the State and Local
Governments to ensure that local businesses and contractors are used in the construction of these new facilities," he said.
