The future of the South West saleyards should be more certain later this year following the submission of proposals in May with the government aiming to finalise a contract by October.
The expressions of interest process was completed late last year with two respondents asked to provide detailed proposals for replacements of the Boyanup saleyards, which are due to close in 2022.
Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said it was encouraging to see the private sector interest in providing a solution.
“This request for proposals will ensure we meet the needs of South West livestock producers while delivering the best outcome for taxpayers,” she said.
Respondents will be required to demonstrate they have a structure that encourages innovation and can respond to changes in the industry.
They will also be required to demonstrate they have a credible pricing structure with independent oversight.
Following the announcement of the two applicants proceeding forward, WAFarmers raised concerns about the process adopted to evaluate the expressions of interest submitted.
WAFarmers supported the Southern Dirt Expression of Interest as it was based on establishing a cooperative model.
WAFarmers Livestock president David Slade said they didn’t support the ownership of two major saleyards being in the hands of one private company.
“This is an effective model which is used by the Katanning and Mount Barker saleyards and we were hoping the same model could have been adopted for the new South West Saleyards and Muchea, given the potential impact that a monopoly situation could have for livestock producers," he said.
“WAFarmers believes a cooperative model will benefit South West livestock producers because a farmer led cooperative has the interest of livestock producer’s front and centre and will keep saleyard fees cost effective to all participants.”
