The Myalup Primary Industries Reserve (MPIR) project is a department initiative that investigates the potential to develop up to 1,500 hectares of new land for high-value horticulture in the Shire of Harvey, in the state’s South West.
This early-stage initiative is focused on supporting the growth of the region’s horticultural industry and creating new opportunities for producers.
Regional Development outcomes
The MPIR project aims to investigate the potential expansion of horticulture at Myalup to boost regional economic development and support food continuity in one of Western Australia’s key agricultural production areas.
By investigating new land development, DPIRD can assess whether the project has the potential to increase agricultural production and support the creation of local jobs.
If progressed, the MPIR could support the expansion of high-value horticultural land in the region, enabling the production of annual and perennial crops like carrots, potatoes, onions, broccoli, and citrus, while complementing existing horticulture in Myalup.
The MPIR builds on many years of investigative work by DPIRD to explore the feasibility of expanding the Myalup agricultural precinct in future. It is a long-term project, with development expected to be staged progressively over the next 5 to 30 years.
Current phase: investigation
The MPIR proposal is currently in the planning and investigation stage. Feasibility assessments and detailed studies are underway to help guide future planning.
Development of the horticultural precinct will require a range of state and federal government approvals before it can proceed, with its progression informed by the outcomes of these studies.
Project site
The proposed MPIR is located near the well-established Myalup horticultural district in the Shire of Harvey. This proximity supports potential connections with existing horticultural operations and infrastructure and capitalises on the area’s good quality horticultural soils and transport links.
Currently, the project site supports a pine plantation, which is managed by the Forest Products Commission (FPC). The department is working with the FPC to ensure that the MPIR doesn’t adversely impact the FPC’s operations or the state’s pine supply. This would be achieved by delaying the establishment of the MPIR until after the pines have been harvested at the end of their growing cycle. Additionally, DPIRD is working with the FPC to secure alternative pine plantation land.
Stakeholder engagement
As part of the preliminary assessment process, the department has engaged independent consultants ACIL Allen to carry out a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) for the proposed MPIR.
The SIA will explore the potential social implications of future horticultural development in the region. This includes engaging with a broad range of stakeholders in the Shire of Harvey and surrounding areas—such as local growers, potential MPIR users, government agencies, traditional owners, nearby residents, and the wider community.
The department will continue to keep stakeholders and the community informed as the project progresses.
Feedback / Questions
Your comments and questions will help inform the ongoing planning and feasibility studies and ensure we consider a broad range of perspectives from the community.