Future Crops, Fuels and Bioproducts Workshop

The DPIRD Bioenergy Team attended the Future Crops, Fuels and Bioproducts Workshop hosted by the Western Australian Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) on 15 September.

The workshop brought together researchers, industry, government and the finance sector to review the draft WA Biofuel and Bio-based R&D Investment Framework and Opportunity Map. The group identified priorities in supply chains, carbon intensity and traceability, feedstock development, conversion pathways and market readiness.

Feedback will refine the framework which will inform future research and development for WA's biofuel and bio-based industries.

Source: WA Agricultural Research Collaboration, 2026

Fuelling Australia's future

Fuelled by renewable diesel, a Massey Ferguson 9S Series tractor recently completed an epic 2,500 km journey through WA's farming and mining communities, demonstrating the potential for biofuels to power the industries that keep the nation moving.

The tour showcased how biofuels can be used in existing engines, distribution infrastructure and equipment without modification. The tractor can use B20 biodiesel and HVO100,100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) a renewable diesel produced from canola, recycled cooking oils and tallow.

Travelling through the Wheatbelt, Goldfields and Esperance regions, the journey provided a valuable opportunity to engage regional communities on modern biofuel technologies and the important role for agriculture in supplying feedstocks for biofuel production.

From paddock to fuel tank, the trip demonstrated how the agriculture sector and innovation in biofuel-sourced energy can support a sustainable future.

Follow the tractor's journey on YouTube.

Massey Ferguson tractor fueled by renewable diesel in canola field.Source: Machinery Media (2026).

Talkin' about the circular economy

ABC Goldfield's Rural Report spoke to DPIRD Research Officer and Curtin University PhD student, Ana Maria Caceres Ruiz about her research into the circular bioeconomy in the Esperance Port Zone. Ana Maria talked about the potential to use crop stubble for biofuels and bioenergy, and the importance of farmers’ views on supply, sustainability and logistics. Listen to the interview here.

Growers in the Esperance-Ravensthorpe region can be involved in Ana's research. Scan the QR code below to complete the survey or email Ana Maria at bioenergy@dpird.wa.gov.au for more information.

In the News

National Bioenergy Feedstock Strategy

The National Bioenergy feedstock Strategy was released in August 2026.

The strategy provides a framework for collaboration between government and industry to advance the development of Australia's feedstock supply chains. WA has the potential to supply feedstocks and unlock new opportunities for regions and strengthen our role in Australia's emerging bioeconomy.

Toyota Showcases Renewable Diesel at AFL Grand Final Parade

Toyota Australia's HiLux vehicles at this year's AFL Grand Final parade were fuelled by 100 per cent hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) renewable diesel. HiLux models from mid-2015 are approved to operate on renewable diesel, reducing emissions without replacing engines. Read the article here .

Low Carbon Liquid Fuels Knowledge Hub is live!

The hub provides information about the fuels, feedstocks, supply chains and frameworks shaping the low carbon liquid fuel landscape. The hub explains fuel types, feedstocks and supply chains, how LCLFs are produced and used and provides updates on developments in Australia and overseas. Explore the hub here

Government funding available

Round 3 of the WA Government's $3.1 million Carbon Innovation Grants Program is open to local businesses with innovative approaches to decarbonisation. Applications close Friday 11 December 2026.
Up to $250 million is available through the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund – Low Carbon Liquid Fuels which supports early-stage and pre-commercial projects in SAF, renewable diesel and advanced biofuels.
The $400 million Powering the Regions Industrial Transformation Stream will remain open until funding is exhausted.
The Advancing Renewables Program provides flexible funding for renewable technologies including bioenergy, renewable fuels and enabling infrastructure projects.
The SAF Funding Initiative supports SAF project development under the Innovation and Commercialisation streams.

CER Roadshow

The Clean Energy Regulator will hold a half-day event in Perth on Wednesday, 18 November as part of a national roadshow on the Guarantee of Origin (GO) scheme, the Product Guarantee of Origin (PGO) and the Renewable Electricity Guarantee of Origin (REGO).

Visit the CER events page for more details.

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Important disclaimer
The Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the State of Western Australia accept no liability whatsoever by reason of negligence or otherwise arising from the use or release of this information or any part of it.