The McGowan Government has locked in $320 million for new world-class biosecurity and research facilities to protect and grow Western Australia’s primary industries for future generations.
A new metropolitan facility for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will be built on Murdoch University’s Perth campus, featuring modern laboratory and technical workspaces for about 350 staff.
It will replace outdated and interim laboratory facilities in use at South Perth – many of which date back to the 1950s – with the new permanent facility expected to be complete in 2027.
The landmark investment backs the McGowan Government’s efforts to reinvigorate agricultural research and development in the State, and deliver strong biosecurity to respond to heightened global pest and disease threats.
The facility will be located on 11.3 hectares at Murdoch University, in the south-eastern corner of the campus, within an existing agricultural precinct.
It will include:
- Cutting-edge specialist laboratories and supporting technical workspaces to support biosecurity, market access and primary industries research and development;
- An incident and emergency management operational centre;
- A glasshouse complex with glasshouses, shade houses and associated facilities; and
- Field plots for on-site research.
The McGowan Government will also be working to accommodate key strategic partners at the facility, including the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre and InterGrain.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“This is a once-in-a-generation investment which will serve Western Australia and our primary industries for many decades to come.
“This will be a modern facility delivering world-class science, which will strengthen our biosecurity capability and access to valuable export markets into the future.
“It will help to keep WA’s farmers at the cutting edge of science, backing their important contribution to our State.
“The Murdoch location provides an opportunity to build on the existing research relationships the department has with all WA universities to deliver great research, scientific excellence and innovation in agriculture and food production.”
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“WA’s primary industries make an enormous economic contribution to our State and especially the regions, valued at $11.7 billion and growing.
“Research and Development has been critical to supporting our farmers to increase profitability with ongoing climate challenges.
“As we become more integrated globally, we see biosecurity risks increasing exponentially. We must have the best tools to protect our industry.
“This is a long-awaited move which will deliver long-lasting benefits for the State’s agrifood industries across biosecurity, research and development.”
