WA Farmers’ Market Grant Scheme

One-off grants of up to $50,000 (excluding GST) per market
Covers up to 100% of eligible project costs, so no co-contribution is required
Up to 10% of the project budget can go towards administration and project management
Up to 25% is paid when the project starts, with the rest reimbursed after you submit evidence of spending
$2 million available in total
Applications close on 30 June 2027, or earlier if funding runs out

The Farmers' Market Grant Scheme gives farmers' market operators in Western Australia up to $50,000, covering 100% of eligible costs, to improve infrastructure, compliance, marketing and long-term financial sustainability. Operators must first complete a free training workshop before applying for funding. Applications close on 30 June 2027, or earlier if funding runs out.

The scheme is run by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). It supports existing and new farmers' markets in regional and metropolitan WA, helping local producers sell directly to customers and connecting communities with fresh, in-season food.

Key Requirements

Two-stage process

Stage 1: apply online, then complete a free training workshop for market operators, managers and committee members. The workshop covers operations, business administration and marketing, and includes an assessment of your market that shapes your Stage 2 project
Stage 2: once you’ve completed the workshop, you’re invited to submit a detailed funding application
Completing Stage 1 is required, but it doesn’t guarantee Stage 2 funding

Market requirements
Markets must meet, or intend to meet, the WAFMA definition of a farmers’ market:

a mainly fresh food market held regularly at a public location, where farmers and specialty producers sell farm-origin and value-added food directly to customers
run by a community-based not-for-profit, social enterprise, co-operative or business set up for that purpose
with all produce sold by the farmer or producer, a family member, or an employee directly involved in making it

Stage 2 eligibility

Hold an ABN, be registered for GST if turnover is above $75,000, and have an Australian bank account
Be a WAFMA member and have completed the WAFMA training workshop
Operate in WA selling WA produce
Have acquitted any previous government grants
Comply with state and local government requirements, such as zoning and food safety
Keep any equipment bought with the grant for at least 24 months
Take part in program evaluation within 12 months of finishing the project

Suppliers
Capital equipment needs at least two professional quotes. Suppliers and service providers must be completely separate from the applicant, with no shared ownership, directors or family ties. Local suppliers are encouraged.

Applicants can contact DPIRD to discuss their project before applying. Full details are in the Farmers’ Market Grant Scheme guidelines.

What is eligible for funding?

Infrastructure: signage, toilets and hygiene facilities, power, onsite storage and shelter, accessibility and point-of-sale upgrades
Planning and compliance: business planning, risk management, work health and safety, food safety training, first aid, auditing and specialist training
Marketing and communication: community engagement, such as visiting chefs or one-off events
Market development: stallholder fee reductions or waivers for producers who follow WAFMA guidelines
One-off projects: that support operations and long-term financial sustainability, including service providers or project staff salaries tied to the approved project
Administration: up to 10% of the budget for managing the project

Activities with no clear link to farmers’ markets, buying or maintaining vehicles, equipment unrelated to running the market, costs incurred before the letter of offer, grant writing or consultant fees for any application, suppliers connected to the applicant, intellectual property protection, hospitality, entertainment, alcohol and travel.

What companies are eligible for funding?

Operators of existing or new farmers’ markets in WA, including community-based not-for-profits, social enterprises, co-operatives and businesses. Group applicants must nominate a lead applicant, and trustees must provide a trust deed showing they’re authorised to apply.

Individuals, government agencies, unincorporated associations and businesses outside WA can’t apply.

You can also browse our other Western Australian grants for agriculture and community funding.

Is this grant competitive or entitlement based?

Non-competitive. Applications are assessed against the eligibility criteria in the order they are received, until funding is exhausted.

How can I increase my chances of winning this grant?

By engaging a professional government grant writer consultant. Avant Group is Australia’s largest independent grants advisory firm. Because funding is awarded in the order valid applications are received, having a complete, well-costed Stage 2 application ready as soon as you finish the workshop gives you the best chance. Find out more about our government grant writing and consulting service here.

How can I get help understanding if I’m eligible for this grant? Or know if I’m likely to win funding?

Avant Group offers a no-obligation assessment of your eligibility for funding and will assess your likelihood of a successful grant application.

This grant is open

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