Welcome to the Australian Local Food System Policy Database. This is a collection of policies from New South Wales (NSW) and Victorian local governments that relate to healthy, sustainable, and equitable food systems.
For further information about using the database and how it was created see How to use the database. You can search the database by using the fields below. Domain refers to eight broad categories under which various topics are situated. The domains and topics are based on a framework of recommendations for local government action on creating a healthy, sustainable, and equitable food system (also located on the ‘How to use the database’ page linked above).
To cite the database: Reeve B, Carrad A, Rose N, Charlton K & Aguirre-Bielschowsky I (2021) Australian Local Food System Policy Database. Available at: https://law-food-systems.sydney.edu.au/policy-database (access date).
Suggested search terms
Hold Ctrl to select multiple terms. Using ‘any words’ functions as an “OR” search. Using ‘all words’ functions as and “AND” search.
Search Criteria:
| Document title | Relevant text in the policy | Domain | Topic | State | Local Government name | Council type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Educators and the Coordination Unit, through home visits, will help children connect with nature through various activities such as; Constructing worm farms, building vegetable or herb gardens, composting | Food Waste | Food losses and food waste | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Recycle office items such as paper, ink cartridges, plastics and kitchen refuse | Food Waste | Food losses and food waste | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Using reusable shopping bags rather than plastic bags for purchasing items for the service. | Food Waste | Food losses and food waste | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Where families provide children’s food, encourage them to minimise the use of disposable packing and to use reusable containers instead. | Food Waste | Food losses and food waste | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Actively engage children in recycling, composting, gardening and worm farm experiences. | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Educators and the Coordination Unit, through home visits, will help children connect with nature through various activities such as; Constructing worm farms, building vegetable or herb gardens, composting | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Recycle office items such as paper, ink cartridges, plastics and kitchen refuse | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Using reusable shopping bags rather than plastic bags for purchasing items for the service. | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Where families provide children’s food, encourage them to minimise the use of disposable packing and to use reusable containers instead. | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Growing plants from seeds | Health and Wellbeing | Education/events on food system issues | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Actively engage children in recycling, composting, gardening and worm farm experiences. | Sustainability and Environment | Home and community gardening | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| FAR WEST FAMILY DAY CARE POLICY DOCUMENT SUSTAINABILITY POLICY & PROCEDURE | Educators and the Coordination Unit, through home visits, will help children connect with nature through various activities such as; Constructing worm farms, building vegetable or herb gardens, composting | Sustainability and Environment | Home and community gardening | NSW | Cobar | Regional |
| Farmland Rating | 1. POLICY OBJECTIVES 1.1 To provide clear procedures and criteria for assessment of categorisation as farmland for rating purposes. 1.2 To ensure that all applications for categorisation as farmland for rating purposes are determined using a consistent criteria. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable local food production | NSW | Wollondilly | Metropolitan |
| FARMLAND RATING POLICY | 2. OBJECTIVE 2.1 To provide clear guidelines on how to qualify for the farmland rating category. 2.2 To ensure that all farmland assessments are determined using a consistent criteria. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable local food production | NSW | Camden | Metropolitan |
| Farmland Rating Policy | OBJECTIVES To provide clear guidelines for Council and property owners on how to qualify for the farmland rating category To ensure that all farmland assessments are determined using a consistent criteria. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable local food production | NSW | Ballina | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | AGRICULTURAL SECTOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN DESCRIPTION ECONOMIC IMPACT With a detailed plan in place that is backed by scientific and economic rationale; we aim to attract $0.5M annual investment in the sector. Develop a plan that outlines a roadmap for future development of the agriculture sector in Hepburn Shire. Identify current strengths, challenges, opportunities and risks and develop a plan that will ensure the sector continues to be a major economic contributor to the Shire. The project will draw on work being undertaken by Cultivate, Future Landscapes while also taking a localised approach to what is needed. RATIONALE Extensive consultation with those in the agricultural sector has revealed that while this sector is strong and resourceful, there is much that can be done to enhance and build upon this strength. This initiative acknowledges the importance of the sector and the need for a purpose built plan. Within the sector, business types, models, output and expectation varies greatly, therefore the plan will need to address a wide variety of agricultural business models. There are many producers working off small acreage and only trading locally, while there are others working to more established acreage, methods and markets. The agricultural plan will help existing producers optimise their businesses and safeguard them into the future while also provide valuable information and guidance to those looking to start new agriculture ventures. ECONOMIC IMPACT OF $1M INVESTMENT (Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing) "THE PLAN WILL HELP PRODUCERS OPTIMISE THEIR BUSINESSES". Effect on GRP Effect on Employment PROJECT PLAN TASK Analysis DIRECT IMPACT $0.4M 8fte FLOW-ON TOTAL $0.39M 3fte $0.79M 11fte* DETAIL Establish an understanding of current agricultural issues as well as the nuanced needs of smaller producers within the Shire. Address the various agri-business models and the current State and National policy stances that influence each industry within the sector. Consultation Undertake extensive consultation with local agri-businesses as well as governing bodies such as Cultivate and Agriculture Victoria. Plan Development Stakeholder Review Revise and Implement Based on input from local business, sector analysis and governing bodies, develop the draft plan. Circulate the draft plan to stakeholders for review and comment. Revise and finalise Agriculture sector development plan for adoption by Council. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | By adding value to primary produce within the farm gate, and forming local supply agreements with local food service providers, we have many small scale producers building our Shire’s reputation as a paddock to plate food destination. These emerging agricultural business models make entering the sector more viable for younger producers and will be a focus of the Agricultural Sector Development Plan that has been highlighted as a priority in this strategy. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Compile a list of existing and relevant training opportunities. These will be concentrated in agri-business and hospitality sectors. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Harness existing education, training and mentoring opportunities provided by our producers, creators and entrepreneurs with the aim of promoting Hepburn Shire as the preeminent place to learn about everything associated with food production and gastronomy. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | PADDOCK TO PLATE TRAINING INITIATIVE DESCRIPTION PROJECT PLAN TASK Identify existing training opportunities This initiative will see HSC promote local businesses that currently offer training and experience opportunities in the paddock to plate sectors. Harnessing the existing education, training and mentoring opportunities provided by our producers, creators and entrepreneurs with the aim of promoting Hepburn Shire as the pre eminent place to learn about everything associated with food production and gastronomy. The project will include branding and content design of the program so that promotion can be done through our VIC’s, websites, and other marketing assets. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | By adding value to primary produce within the farm gate, and forming local supply agreements with local food service providers, we have many small scale producers building our Shire’s reputation as a paddock to plate food destination. These emerging agricultural business models make entering the sector more viable for younger producers and will be a focus of the Agricultural Sector Development Plan that has been highlighted as a priority in this strategy. | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Harness existing education, training and mentoring opportunities provided by our producers, creators and entrepreneurs with the aim of promoting Hepburn Shire as the preeminent place to learn about everything associated with food production and gastronomy | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Invite the world to experience Hepburn Shire and all it has to offer. Mineral springs, forests and trails, food and wine, events, art and culture; these assets are a part of the unique experience that can be found in the Shire. | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | INVITE THE WORLD TO EXPERIENCE HEPBURN SHIRE AND ALL IT HAS TO OFFER. MINERAL SPRINGS, FORESTS, FOOD AND WINE, EVENTS AND CULTURE; THESE ASSETS ARE A PART OF THE UNIQUE EXPERIENCE THAT CAN BE FOUND WITHIN THE SHIRE. | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | PADDOCK TO PLATE TRAINING INITIATIVE DESCRIPTION PROJECT PLAN TASK Identify existing training opportunities This initiative will see HSC promote local businesses that currently offer training and experience opportunities in the paddock to plate sectors. Harnessing the existing education, training and mentoring opportunities provided by our producers, creators and entrepreneurs with the aim of promoting Hepburn Shire as the pre eminent place to learn about everything associated with food production and gastronomy. The project will include branding and content design of the program so that promotion can be done through our VIC’s, websites, and other marketing assets. RATIONALE Based on information obtained through consultation it is recognised that there are many artisan and agri-businesses within our Shire that provide workshops and training in their field of expertise. This initiative proposes to harness these opportunities and promote them as part of the broader experience based activities that our shire offers. PROJECT GOAL This initiative aims to increase participation in these programs by 20% and attract further operators to enter the business segment Рfurther developing the Shire’s reputation as an experience based destination. Review and revise future strategy Launch Program Expand promotion and build reputation Execute marketing and promotion as planned. Consult with training providers to monitor success. Approach training facilitators that are able to contribute to the brand. Create pathways for them to become local training providers. e.g. University of Melbourne (Creswick), Federation Training, TAFE or other agencies Assess progress and future expansion opportunities of the program. Consultation DETAIL Compile a list of existing and relevant training opportunities. These will be concentrated in agri-business and hospitality sectors. Consult with existing training providers and gather feedback on branding and marketing ideas to be associated with the program. Develop branding and promotion Develop marketing and promotion plan include: • brand name and logo • website and social media content. | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Agricultural Sector Development Plan A plan that recognises the importance of this sector to the local economy and to the State that will guide development and decision making for future growth. Key action areas include supporting innovative and high value agricultural production, marketing and distribution opportunities for local growers. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | AGRICULTURAL SECTOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN DESCRIPTION ECONOMIC IMPACT With a detailed plan in place that is backed by scientific and economic rationale; we aim to attract $0.5M annual investment in the sector. Develop a plan that outlines a roadmap for future development of the agriculture sector in Hepburn Shire. Identify current strengths, challenges, opportunities and risks and develop a plan that will ensure the sector continues to be a major economic contributor to the Shire. The project will draw on work being undertaken by Cultivate, Future Landscapes while also taking a localised approach to what is needed. RATIONALE Extensive consultation with those in the agricultural sector has revealed that while this sector is strong and resourceful, there is much that can be done to enhance and build upon this strength. This initiative acknowledges the importance of the sector and the need for a purpose built plan. Within the sector, business types, models, output and expectation varies greatly, therefore the plan will need to address a wide variety of agricultural business models. There are many producers working off small acreage and only trading locally, while there are others working to more established acreage, methods and markets. The agricultural plan will help existing producers optimise their businesses and safeguard them into the future while also provide valuable information and guidance to those looking to start new agriculture ventures. ECONOMIC IMPACT OF $1M INVESTMENT (Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing) "THE PLAN WILL HELP PRODUCERS OPTIMISE THEIR BUSINESSES". Effect on GRP Effect on Employment PROJECT PLAN TASK Analysis DIRECT IMPACT $0.4M 8fte FLOW-ON TOTAL $0.39M 3fte $0.79M 11fte* DETAIL Establish an understanding of current agricultural issues as well as the nuanced needs of smaller producers within the Shire. Address the various agri-business models and the current State and National policy stances that influence each industry within the sector. Consultation Undertake extensive consultation with local agri-businesses as well as governing bodies such as Cultivate and Agriculture Victoria. Plan Development Stakeholder Review Revise and Implement Based on input from local business, sector analysis and governing bodies, develop the draft plan. Circulate the draft plan to stakeholders for review and comment. Revise and finalise Agriculture sector development plan for adoption by Council. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | As a Shire situated on some of Australia’s most fertile agricultural land, and given our strong agricultural history, safeguarding the viability of this sector is a major priority for our communities. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | HARNESS EMERGING TRENDS AND SECTORS EXISTING IN THE SHIRE AND FURTHER DEVELOP THEM TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH INTO THE FUTURE | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |
| FERTILE GROUND HEPBURN SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY | Harness existing education, training and mentoring opportunities provided by our producers, creators and entrepreneurs with the aim of promoting Hepburn Shire as the preeminent place to learn about everything associated with food production and gastronomy. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Hepburn | Regional |