Commissioned by the Western Australian Meat Industry Authority (WAMIA) and undertaken by Deloitte Access Economics, the report found that an upgraded South-West livestock facility was seen by stakeholders as particularly important to small livestock producers and was an important social hub for producers in the region.

The Boyanup saleyards have been described as being old and in need of investment if it is to meet current and future standards such as animal welfare.

The existing Boyanup facility is due to close in 2022 when the current lease with the Shire of Capel expires.

The State Government will bring together South-West stakeholders in early 2018 to examine possible next steps for replacement saleyards.

WA Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said there is clear support from South-West producers for a replacement saleyard facility. 

“However, given the tough fiscal environment we face, the new Boyanup upgrade will need to be predominantly privately funded,” Minister MacTiernan said. 

"We want to gauge interest from the private and local government sectors for the construction, ownership and operation of a future facility,” she said.

"We are prepared to consider linking the Muchea Livestock Centre into a package with a new South-West facility if this would improve viability.”

The State Government will bring together South-West stakeholders in early 2018 to examine possible next steps for replacement saleyards.

The full report is available HERE.