AN all-weather production facility at award-winning modular and prefabricated home builder Evoke Living Homes in Northam was officially opened last month by Regional Development Minister Don Punch.

The facility was supported by a $200,000 grant through the regional economic development (RED) grant program in 2021.

Completion of the 2000sqm undercover facility enables Evoke Living Homes to reduce construction delays and increase production by 20 per cent, translating to an additional eight to 10 new homes built per year in the region.

The builder also took on six new trades and two apprentices to support production capacity increases, helping the business scale into new markets.

During his trip to Northam, Minister Punch also visited another RED project site at the Avon Industrial Park, where Tradesales are constructing a new commercial office.

He also toured the Mortlock Gardens key worker housing precinct and met with the Shire of Northam to discuss the town’s growth priorities.

Regional Development Minister Don Punch said modular home construction played a vital role in meeting Western Australia’s demand for new housing stock.

“Evoke Living Homes is an innovative market leader in the Wheatbelt region, and I am pleased the Cook Government has been able to support the delivery of much needed homes in our regions,” he said.

“By supporting local initiatives through the RED Grants program, our government is demonstrating its commitment and support to diversifying small businesses and enterprises in the region.

“To date, RED Grants have injected $4.2 million into the Wheatbelt economy across 48 projects, leveraging more than $27 million in private sector investment.”

Round seven of the RED grant program opens later this month. Local businesses or organisations with project proposals are encouraged to contact the Wheatbelt Development Commission (WDC) on (08) 9622 7222 or email grants@wheatbelt.wa.gov.au