Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission

15/10/2026

Round 3 of the Carbon Innovation Grants Program is currently open.

The program funds feasibility studies, pilot projects and capital works that help to avoid, reduce or offset carbon emissions from heavy industry processes, with a focus on supporting innovative technologies for carbon abatement and sequestration. Eligible applicants can access between $50,000 and $1.5 million.

Applications close 11 December 2026.

For more information and to apply visit - https://www.wa.gov.au/service/community-services/grants-and-subsidies/carbon-innovation-grants-program

07/10/2026

The GEDC Board of Management has undergone a significant transition, welcoming five new members.

• Kate Mills appointed as Chair of the GEDC
• Glenn Wilson, Deputy Chairperson (Kalgoorlie based)
• Patrick Hill, Member (Laverton based)
• Anna Bonney – Member (Esperance based)
• Chelsie Grace – Member (Kalgoorlie based)

Ms Mill’s appointment follows the departure of outgoing chair Terrence Winner, who has served as a strong regional leader on the GEDC Board for the past six years.

With a diverse mix and representation from across the region, the refreshed Board of Management will bring new perspectives to the regional development portfolio.

06/10/2026

This week State Cabinet visited the region, providing Kalgoorlie-Boulder business owners and community members an opportunity to connect with Government Ministers. Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson and Goldfields-Esperance Minister David Michael attended various events and tours including:

• A Town Hall event with community leaders and locals;
• Official Community Cabinet meeting;
• Meeting with Paupiyala Tjarutja Aboriginal Corporation and attending Boulder Camp, as part of an inter-agency working group to develop a plan for the camps’ future;
• Visiting Round 8 REDs grant recipients Leeson Electrical as they embark on a new workshop, and Westralia Homes, who are utilising innovative waffle pod technology;
• Visiting Coolgardie to meet with the Shire and discuss key priorities;
• Visiting Pringle Village to discuss plans for Stage 2 of the Seniors Independent Living project; and
• Breaking ground for the Goldfields water pipeline upgrades, future proofing water supply for the region.

Whilst in the region, the Premier and Minister for Health officially opened the Laverton hospital, which includes a new emergency department, specialist facilities, outpatient services and space for an onsite private GP clinic, constructed by WA builder ADCO Constructions.

Regional tours of this nature provide a unique opportunity to showcase the Goldfields-Esperance region and act as an important part of advocating for the services and infrastructure required to drive economic development.

29/09/2026

The Board and staff of the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Graham Thomson on his recent passing.

Mr Thomson consistently worked to create opportunities for the Goldfields region, through a lifetime of work supporting regional development, strengthening community connections and advocating for the investment needed for regional Western Australia to thrive.

Mr Thomson held the position of GEDC Chair from 2008-2012 and the Chair of the Regional Development Council 2009-2011, where he brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to provide leadership and guidance.

23/09/2026

GEDC’s Regional Development staff hit the road to Ravensthorpe this week to get an update on all things happening across the Fitzgerald.

We met with CEO Nicole O’Neill and Director Paul Spencer from the Shire of Ravensthorpe to discuss drought and water security, emergency preparedness and response, and tourism opportunities being progressed on the Fitzgerald coast, including the wonderful Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show.

A central element of our regional development role is stakeholder engagement - connecting with local governments and community organisations, understanding their key priorities and fostering collaborative solutions to local issues.

21/09/2026

The Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission releases its 2025–26 Annual Report, following tabling in WA State Parliament on 17 September 2026.

We invite you to view the full report here: https://issuu.com/goldfieldsesperancedevelopmentcommission/docs/gedc_annual_report_2025_26
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The Annual Report provides an overview of the GEDC’s performance and achievements, aligned with the State Government’s strategic priorities, goals, and key performance indicators.

Some key highlights for the year include:

• The Regional Drought Resilience Planning Program, delivering a coordinated plan that will build drought resilience through water security.
• The Kalgoorlie Rail Realignment Project including the completion of a regional freight demand and supply chain analysis and delivery of a robust business case to support the progression of this strategic regional project.
• The Outback Way Inter-agency Working Group focused on “Beyond Road” matters associated with the sealing of the Great Central Road; an example of how the GEDC identifies impacts and opportunities via strong connections to key players in order to drive tangible outcomes.
• The PoweringWA Goldfields Regional Network, point to opportunities to strengthen resilience and connectivity across this diverse energy system and increase energy supply and reliability to Kalgoorlie.
• Support for local business growth and economic diversification through Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants Program.
• Ongoing collaboration with Aboriginal people to promote economic empowerment and inclusive development.

17/09/2026

Showcasing REDs Grant Recipients

Esperance Smash Repairs received funding through the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant Program, to install a new downforce spray booth.

This project has supported job creation, increased capacity and turn-around time of vehicle repairs, allowing visitors and locals to get back on the road sooner. 🚘

Check out the project below:

Esperance Smash Repairs received funding through the Regional Econo...

16/09/2026

The Evolution Mining Stadium was transformed with diamonds and pearls for the KBCCI 2026 Goldfields Business Awards held on the weekend. Local businesses and employees were celebrated for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

As sponsors of the Community Organisation and Not-for-Profit category, GEDC Director Regional Development Regan Brewer presented the award to Full Circle Therapies Inc.

The award recognised Full Circles' outstanding service to Goldfields families requiring paediatric allied health therapy.

Thank you to the KBCCI for showcasing the fabulous businesses in our region and congratulations to all nominees and category winners.

15/09/2026

Round 3 of the On Farm Connectivity Program is now open.

Primary producers can apply for a rebate of up to $20,000 to help improve on-farm digital connectivity and adopt advanced farming technology.

See more information and apply here - https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/on-farm-connectivity-program-round-3

The program forms part of the Australian Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

11/09/2026

What a treat! Local Masterchef finalist leads Converge Welcome Dinner🍇

This year’s Converge Business and Industry Forum began with a very special Welcome Dinner, featuring local culinary Masterchef finalist Hannah Johnson. Hannah led diners through her journey with a behind the scenes look at what goes into creating and producing the popular television show.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet three course meal; expertly w**e taste matched, by local French restaurateur Bistro Louis

The evening featured a local twist of Masterchefs’ infamous “mystery box”, featuring produce from Bob & Jim’s General Store.

A spectacular evening showcasing Esperance's fine hospitality was on full display for the visiting and local guests.