THE West Australian government is seeking to fast-track agricultural expansion in the western Kimberley in a bid to use the area's vast untapped water resources.
Several farmers, including one of Australia's largest wheat growers, the NSW-based Harris family, have bought property in the region and are studying agricultural development opportunities.
The state's Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman, says the government supports moves to relax rules that define what can and cannot be grown in areas of large water reserves, The Australian Financial Review reports.
"The west Kimberley has the potential to become an important region for irrigated agriculture in WA, with suitable soils and groundwater available close to roads and labour," Mr Redman said. "The state government is enthusiastic about unlocking that potential."