$300m production facility for frozen chips being built in Vic
The Victorian Government is backing an international food manufacturer to establish its first Australian production facility in the Wimmera region, Western Victoria.
Farm Frites Australia is establishing its $300m facility in Dooen to manufacture frozen chips using Australian produce, with a capacity to process up to 250,000 tonnes of potatoes every year once fully operational.
The frozen chips, fries and other potato-based products will then be supplied to takeaways, pubs, clubs and fast-food restaurants including KFC and Hungry Jacks right across Australia.
The 24-hour production facility, located next to the Wimmera Intermodal Freight Hub, is expected to create 250 new local jobs, support Australian farmers, and provide training and career opportunities for students in the region.
The new food processing facility was granted planning permit approval under the Labor Government’s Development Facilitation Program, which expedites planning decisions for eligible projects that will inject investment into the Victorian economy — creating new jobs and promoting economic growth.
Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson said: “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.
“We’re proudly backing companies to invest in advanced manufacturing because we know it is key to unlocking economic growth and creating more opportunities for all Victorians.”
Farm Frites Australia General Manager Kieran Prestidge said: “Farm Frites Australia is delighted to have chosen Dooen — and the Wimmera — for our first Australian production facility and our $300 million investment in Victorian jobs, Australian farmers and local manufacturing.
“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.”
The plant is expected to be operational in 2027.
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