The Victorian government is backing an international food manufacturer, Farm Frites Australia, to establish its production facility in western Victoria, creating 250 new local jobs and supporting economic growth in the Wimmera.
Minister for economic growth and jobs Danny Pearson announced Farm Frites Australia is setting up a $300 million APAC manufacturing base in Dooen to produce its frozen chips using Australian-grown potatoes.
“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,” said Pearson.
“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 supplies frozen chips, fries and other potato-based products to takeaways, pubs, clubs and fast-food restaurants, including KFC and Hungry Jack’s, across Australia.
The 24-hour production facility, located next to the Wimmera Intermodal Freight Hub, will support Australian farmers, create local jobs and offer training and career opportunities for students in a region with a strong agricultural history.
Once operational in 2027, the manufacturing plant will have the capacity to process up to 250,000 tonnes of Australian-grown potatoes each year.
“Regional Victoria has the resources and workforce that make it an ideal place to do business – which is why we’ve supported this new facility, because it creates more local jobs,” said minister for regional development Jaclyn Symes.
The new food processing facility was granted planning approval under the state government’s Development Facilitation Program, which expedites planning decisions for eligible projects that will inject investment into the Victorian economy, create new jobs and promote economic growth.
Victoria’s food and beverage manufacturing sector generates more than $44 billion in sales and service income and employs more than 76,000 people.
“We’re making good planning decisions faster through the Development Facilitation Program and this project fits the bill – not only because it will boost investment, jobs and growth, it will also enhance Victoria’s agricultural and manufacturing output,” said minister for planning Sonya Kilkenny.
The Victorian government’s Economic Growth Statement received $240 million in the 2025/26 Budget to deliver more than 40 initiatives that will support investment, create jobs, drive exports and boost industry and innovation.
The new $150 million Victorian Investment Fund will also drive business investment in the state, with $50 million set aside for a regional stream to accelerate growth in sectors including advanced manufacturing and agribusiness.
“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,” said Farm Frites Australia general manager Kieran Prestidge.
“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.”