The aim of the Pilbara Cities Economic Diversification Framework is to facilitate capital investment for new projects, products or services that will strategically expand and broaden the economic base of the Region. New projects, products or services that will likely be supported under the Framework will be characterised as not otherwise occurring and for which the wider economic benefits of the investment outweigh the costs to Government. The Framework also provides for State interests to be considered to ensure that economic development in the Pilbara is part of wider economic development in Western Australia.

To achieve the Framework’s objectives, the State Government is offering targeted financial support for eligible projects, products or services that:

* Supports the growth and sustainability of the Pilbara Cities vision for Karratha and Port Hedland to be established as cities by 2035;
* Adds value to current economic output of the Pilbara;
* Diversifies the Pilbara economic base;
* Builds on the Pilbara regions competitive and comparative advantages;
* Assist businesses constrained by market failure impediments; and
* Develop activities with long term growth potential beyond current resource projects.

Funding can be obtained through applying in the Expression of Interest process open until 5pm Monday 1st December 2014.