An R&D ecosystem for innovation in food production
The Food Innovation Precinct of Western Australian (FIPWA) in the Peel Business Park, Nambeelup is a state-of-the-art facility, funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Growth Fund. FIPWA is part of the Peel Region’s transformation and now serves as a hub for agri-food experts, startups, and university programs.
The Precinct is living up to its reputation as a “centre of excellence” by providing opportunities for commercial R&D, prototype and market testing of food and beverage products, and networking for Western Australian food producers.
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construction footprint (size of the lot)
25,025m2 0m2
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building area
5,700m2 0m2
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native plants used (total plants)
12,384 0
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native plants (types)
65 0
Creating a groundbreaking precinct through a global pandemic
Cooper & Oxley were named construction lead following an intensive government tender process, after which we supported an RFQ process to include trades local to the area.
Wherever practicable we sourced materials from local businesses, including fill for siteworks and stone from local quarries.
Construction began shortly before Coronavirus restrictions were first introduced in WA in 2020. We had created a contingency plan that meant we were able to mitigate many of the predicted staffing and building supply chain issues.
Connected by natural materials and a cohesive visual identity
These buildings blend industry, agriculture and commerciality, a story that told in the exposed steel frame and dark shiplap cladding. Natural timber panels frame the exterior social spaces designed for cross-pollination of ideas. Cooper & Oxley worked with various materials throughout the build including concrete, steel and brickwork, while also contributing to the extensive landscaping that completes the overall aesthetic of FIPWA.
The master planning phase focused on the ideology of ‘connectivity’ – to promote cross-collaboration between staff, generating a social atmosphere and in time, a community.
Architect i2c
Innovative building techniques to help Aussie ingenuity flourish
FIPWA comprises three buildings in a connected precinct that allows for exploration across the value chain of food production.
The Research & Development Centre is managed and run by Murdoch University through its Future Foods Institute. The Innovation Centre is home to co-working spaces and acts as a landing pad for businesses looking connect with wider markets locally and internationally. There’s also a common-use food technology facility to help businesses develop, test and produce new and improved products.
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new jobs possible (direct and indirect)
1,483 0
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common-use food technology facility
600m2 0m2
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potential to support up to 51 new food business
51 0
Completed June 2022
Creating more delicious opportunities for the WA economy
Since completion in mid-2022, the initiatives at FIPWA have already begun contributing significantly to the economic viability of the region. Now home to anchor tenants in Spinifex Brewing, Murdoch University, Future Food Systems and GrowHub to name a few, the future is bright for Peel.
