A new frozen potato processing facility is set to open in western Victoria, with the Allan Government confirming support for the project, which is expected to create around 250 jobs once operational.
Farm Frites Australia, an international food manufacturer, will invest about US$195 million (A$300 million) to establish its first production plant in Australia, located in Dooen near Horsham. The factory will produce frozen chips and other potato-based products for domestic foodservice customers, including restaurants and fast-food outlets.
According to the Victorian government, the 24-hour operation will process up to 250,000 tonnes of Australian-grown potatoes each year when it begins production in 2027. The facility will be located next to the Wimmera Intermodal Freight Hub, allowing for direct logistical access to road and rail transport networks.
The development has been approved through the state's Development Facilitation Program, which streamlines planning for large-scale projects considered beneficial to regional investment and employment.
Economic Growth and Jobs Minister Danny Pearson said the facility will provide employment opportunities and support the local supply chain. "This is a huge investment that will see hundreds of jobs created for local workers, driving revenue for the Wimmera and right across the state," he said.
Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes added that the area has the infrastructure and workforce to support the project, while Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said it aligns with Victoria's broader goals to expand agribusiness and manufacturing output.
Farm Frites Australia General Manager Kieran Prestidge said the location offers strong logistical advantages and access to major potato-producing regions. "Dooen is perfectly located between the best growing regions in Australia and has excellent road and rail links, which will help us put more Australian produce on plates and tables all around the country," he said.
Victoria's food and beverage manufacturing sector generates more than US$28 billion (A$44 billion) annually and employs over 76,000 people. The state attracted about US$110 million (A$170 million) in foreign direct investment into the sector in 2024.
The project is part of a broader government strategy to encourage regional investment and expand the state's agribusiness capabilities. Funding allocations in the 2025/26 budget include US$160 million (A$240 million) for investment and innovation initiatives, and a US$95 million (A$150 million) investment fund aimed at supporting regional advanced manufacturing and agriculture projects.
The Dooen facility is expected to contribute to both employment and agricultural demand in western Victoria's potato sector.
For more information:
Lukas Jamieson
Victoria State Government
Tel: +61 (0) 477 373 170
Email: [email protected]
www.premier.vic.gov.au
