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).
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Hold Ctrl to select multiple terms. Using ‘any words’ functions as an “OR” search. Using ‘all words’ functions as and “AND” search.
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| Document title | Relevant text in the policy | Domain | Topic | State | Local Government name | Council type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | TIER 1: FACILITATE EFFICIENT HOUSING MARKETS ZONING FOR LAND SUPPLY Review planning bottlenecks, such as the subdivision approvals process and the processing of complicated multi-level, multi-unit residential development applications. Improve skills/capacity of statutory planners in assessing complicated multi-unit or apartment developments and increasing their understanding of development costs/property economics. The supply of land for new housing – through zoning, rezoning or land release – is a key planning system measure through which councils can influence housing markets. By maintaining a substantial, predictable and readily tapped supply of housing development opportunities in Greater Dandenong, Council will ensure smooth operation of a key element of the local housing market, and this is vital for affordability overall. Council has an effective and well-established residential land supply strategy (Residential Development and Neighbourhood Character Policy at Clause 22.09 of the Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme). This land supply strategy will be reviewed at regular intervals to ensure that objectives are being met. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | TIER 2: FACILITATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING SUPPLY PROVIDING SUPPORTIVE INFRASTRUCTURE Housing is only truly affordable if the cost of living is also included. Improving the accessibility of locations to social infrastructure, by providing a higher concentration of facilities and services and/or by improving public transport access, can help to lower living costs. A secondary effect of this would be to make more locations attractive for development, thereby potentially inducing higher dwelling yields generally, which might add to the supply of affordable housing. Council has a role to play in providing, planning and advocating for the delivery of supportive infrastructure. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | using a housing trust model in the development and delivery of affordable housing include: The ability to leverage funding available only to Housing Associations; Council can donate land (where available) to the trust; The charitable tax status of the trust and associated housing provider reduces the cost of building programmes; and The trust can access tax free incentives from NRAS for providing rental properties to tenants at 80% or less of the going market rate | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | VESTING COUNCIL-OWNED LAND OR AIR RIGHTS IN A HOUSING ASSOCIATION OR AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPER This tool involves the transfer of a land asset or development right (either on land or in the air above current developments) to a Housing Association or affordable housing developer in order to develop affordable housing. This is an immediate, effective and low-risk mechanism by which Council could see delivery of affordable housing. It undoubtedly represents a call on Council’s future revenue stream. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | we need to support our vulnerable residents who are struggling to access affordable and appropriate housing. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | WHAT IS COUNCIL’S SOCIAL HOUSING GOAL? Council is committed to addressing the gap between housing need and supply. Council aims to increase the supply of social housing through strategic use of its land assets and direct financial contributions. When selling or gifting land for development purposes, Council will seek to facilitate the provision of social housing and will consider investing a proportion of the revenue realised in the Housing Development Fund. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | While there are various social housing delivery models available to local government, the Council is not proposing to enter into ownership or management of affordable or social housing. As such, this third tier is limited to mechanisms that, while providing a role for Council in direct facilitation of housing development, do not leave it with an ownership or management responsibility11. PRINCIPLES FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT The provision of affordable housing needs to be integrated into larger market led housing developments and be indistinguishable from the private homes. Government-subsidised housing should not be concentrated in specific locations Government subsidised housing should be well-located close to public transport and services. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | Council’s integrated approach to land use, as well as environmental, community and infrastructure planning, supports housing growth and enables residents to live, shop and work in their local area. | Health and Wellbeing | Accessible healthy food retail | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | Harmony Village is located in the heart of Dandenong, within walking distance to the Dandenong Market, RSL and Dandenong Plaza. The development consists of a retirement village comprising 92 units with basement car parking and a resident’s community centre. Designed and built with community in mind, the residential apartments are clustered around landscaped surrounds and a generous Community Centre The project provides 66 units at an affordable rate for older people experiencing in housing stress. This co-operative social housing component is being operated under CEHL rent setting principles which are based on residents paying 25% of their income plus 100% of the Commonwealth Rental Assistance payment. As all residents are over the age of 55 years old, the rents have been set at rates affordable those limited to the Aged Pensions as their only source of income. High priority has been given to ‘tenure-blind design – that is, no visible difference between co-operative and private market dwellings. Project Partners: Common Equity Housing Ltd, Doutta Galla Aged Services, Department of Human Services, Dandenong RSL | Health and Wellbeing | Accessible healthy food retail | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | : Summary of compliance challenges common in unregistered rooming houses PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT Ensure that disease outbreak is prevented. Prevent overcrowding. General occupant wellbeing and access to ability to store food and cook. A further challenge in resolving these issues is when an existing dwelling or building is used illegally as a rooming house while awaiting a planning permit for an alternative use or development, as the landlord or operator is reluctant to invest in the property in the interim. General sanitary conditions. Ensure appropriate toilets and bathrooms. Kitchen cleanliness and ensure that the facilities are appropriate for the number of occupants. | Planning Frameworks | Modify housing/property designs to ensure adequate food storage/preparation areas | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Housing Strategy 2014-2024, | Kitchen cleanliness and ensure that the facilities are appropriate for the number of occupants. | Food Quality and Safety | Education on/enforce food safety regulations | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Dandenong Policy ______________________________________________________________ Recreation Reserve Advertising, Promotional and Club Signage Policy | Signage must not contain direct product advertisements for alcohol and tobacco products, political parties, adult entertainment, gambling or fast food products, suppliers and restaurants. Council reserves the right to remove or disallow any advertising it deems inappropriate. | Health and Wellbeing | Restrict unhealthy food advertising; increase healthy food promotion | Victoria | Greater Dandenong | Metropolitan |
| Greater Future | The University of Melbourne Dookie Campus is a major rural higher education campus, managed by the Melbourne School of Land and Environment and with strong collaboration with other faculties, especially the Melbourne School of Engineering. The University is recognised worldwide for the quality of its research, courses and graduates. The research goals of the campus are to provide research and training relevant to the needs of the land and food industries and for the environmental management of north east Victoria in particular, as well as south eastern Australia and beyond. A unique new research initiative – Dookie 21 – has been established at the campus. The $5.8 million research centre draws on the expertise of agricultural scientists and engineers to research farming efficiency, innovative energy systems, water management and biodiversity. Researchers are also focusing on testing climate variability adaptation and technologies in agricultural industries, including how to use water, energy and nutrients more efficiently, with particular attention paid to dairies, orchards and vineyards. With continued funding and support to create industry based partnerships the campus will be well placed to become a premier research and education facility promoting rural and regional sustainability. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable local food production | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | “The $2 billion Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Project (NVIRP) is the biggest investment of its kind in Australia, with automated technology and repairs to outdated channels dramatically improving water delivery and efficiency.” | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable water management in food production | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The modernisation of Goulburn-Murray Water’s irrigation network will bring it to a world class standard and help secure the future of our agricultural economy. Local farmers have shown they are prepared to face challenges and embrace new practices. However, Federal and State government support needs to be maintained and increased in order for this innovation to continue. Continued government assistance for farmers, including drought and flood support, interest rate subsidies, counselling services and investment in research and development facilities and programs is paramount. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable water management in food production | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The University of Melbourne Dookie Campus is a major rural higher education campus, managed by the Melbourne School of Land and Environment and with strong collaboration with other faculties, especially the Melbourne School of Engineering. The University is recognised worldwide for the quality of its research, courses and graduates. The research goals of the campus are to provide research and training relevant to the needs of the land and food industries and for the environmental management of north east Victoria in particular, as well as south eastern Australia and beyond. A unique new research initiative – Dookie 21 – has been established at the campus. The $5.8 million research centre draws on the expertise of agricultural scientists and engineers to research farming efficiency, innovative energy systems, water management and biodiversity. Researchers are also focusing on testing climate variability adaptation and technologies in agricultural industries, including how to use water, energy and nutrients more efficiently, with particular attention paid to dairies, orchards and vineyards. With continued funding and support to create industry based partnerships the campus will be well placed to become a premier research and education facility promoting rural and regional sustainability. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable water management in food production | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The vast network of irrigation infrastructure that supports this region’s high-level of production is undergoing the most significant upgrade in its 100 year history. The $2 billion Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Project (NVIRP) is the biggest investment of its kind in Australia, with automated technology and repairs to outdated channels dramatically improving water delivery and efficiency. The modernisation of the region’s irrigation network will bring it to a world class standard. | Sustainability and Environment | Sustainable water management in food production | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | An extremely high number of freight movements are associated with the food industry, which is reliant on a high quality, effective distribution and transport network. The Goulburn Valley Highway Shepparton Bypass is the best long term solution to cater for future road traffic growth. The bypass will: • Improve the level of service for commercial traffic in the region • Improve safety and accessibility for local and through traffic • Provide relief for congested intersections in the city centre; reduce accidents – particularly those involving heavy vehicles • Provide certainty for future land use development • Improve the amenity and safety of Mooroopna’s and Shepparton’s urban areas and • Create synergies with GV Link (Goulburn Valley Freight and Logistics Centre). Planning for the dual lane bypass has been taken to an advanced stage by the Victorian Government. Funding and timing of the project is yet to be confirmed. GV Link Extensive consultation with local and regional agricultural producers and other industry sectors has identified the strategic need to establish a modern, state of the art multi-million dollar freight and logistics centre (GV Link) to help maintain future export competitiveness. Within this centre an intermodal rail-truck transport terminal will provide industry with significant efficiency gains and strategic advantages. Continued government financial support for work on GV Link will be needed to achieve this outcome. | Sustainability and Environment | Strengthen food chain connections/distribution | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The University of Melbourne Dookie Campus is a major rural higher education campus, managed by the Melbourne School of Land and Environment and with strong collaboration with other faculties, especially the Melbourne School of Engineering. The University is recognised worldwide for the quality of its research, courses and graduates. The research goals of the campus are to provide research and training relevant to the needs of the land and food industries and for the environmental management of north east Victoria in particular, as well as south eastern Australia and beyond. A unique new research initiative – Dookie 21 – has been established at the campus. The $5.8 million research centre draws on the expertise of agricultural scientists and engineers to research farming efficiency, innovative energy systems, water management and biodiversity. Researchers are also focusing on testing climate variability adaptation and technologies in agricultural industries, including how to use water, energy and nutrients more efficiently, with particular attention paid to dairies, orchards and vineyards. With continued funding and support to create industry based partnerships the campus will be well placed to become a premier research and education facility promoting rural and regional sustainability. | Sustainability and Environment | Food supply and food system resilience | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The University of Melbourne Dookie Campus is a major rural higher education campus, managed by the Melbourne School of Land and Environment and with strong collaboration with other faculties, especially the Melbourne School of Engineering. The University is recognised worldwide for the quality of its research, courses and graduates. The research goals of the campus are to provide research and training relevant to the needs of the land and food industries and for the environmental management of north east Victoria in particular, as well as south eastern Australia and beyond. A unique new research initiative – Dookie 21 – has been established at the campus. The $5.8 million research centre draws on the expertise of agricultural scientists and engineers to research farming efficiency, innovative energy systems, water management and biodiversity. Researchers are also focusing on testing climate variability adaptation and technologies in agricultural industries, including how to use water, energy and nutrients more efficiently, with particular attention paid to dairies, orchards and vineyards. With continued funding and support to create industry based partnerships the campus will be well placed to become a premier research and education facility promoting rural and regional sustainability. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | An extremely high number of freight movements are associated with the food industry, which is reliant on a high quality, effective distribution and transport network. The Goulburn Valley Highway Shepparton Bypass is the best long term solution to cater for future road traffic growth. The bypass will: • Improve the level of service for commercial traffic in the region • Improve safety and accessibility for local and through traffic • Provide relief for congested intersections in the city centre; reduce accidents – particularly those involving heavy vehicles • Provide certainty for future land use development • Improve the amenity and safety of Mooroopna’s and Shepparton’s urban areas and • Create synergies with GV Link (Goulburn Valley Freight and Logistics Centre). Planning for the dual lane bypass has been taken to an advanced stage by the Victorian Government. Funding and timing of the project is yet to be confirmed. GV Link Extensive consultation with local and regional agricultural producers and other industry sectors has identified the strategic need to establish a modern, state of the art multi-million dollar freight and logistics centre (GV Link) to help maintain future export competitiveness. Within this centre an intermodal rail-truck transport terminal will provide industry with significant efficiency gains and strategic advantages. Continued government financial support for work on GV Link will be needed to achieve this outcome. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The modernisation of Goulburn-Murray Water’s irrigation network will bring it to a world class standard and help secure the future of our agricultural economy. Local farmers have shown they are prepared to face challenges and embrace new practices. However, Federal and State government support needs to be maintained and increased in order for this innovation to continue. Continued government assistance for farmers, including drought and flood support, interest rate subsidies, counselling services and investment in research and development facilities and programs is paramount. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| Greater Future | The University of Melbourne Dookie Campus is a major rural higher education campus, managed by the Melbourne School of Land and Environment and with strong collaboration with other faculties, especially the Melbourne School of Engineering. The University is recognised worldwide for the quality of its research, courses and graduates. The research goals of the campus are to provide research and training relevant to the needs of the land and food industries and for the environmental management of north east Victoria in particular, as well as south eastern Australia and beyond. A unique new research initiative – Dookie 21 – has been established at the campus. The $5.8 million research centre draws on the expertise of agricultural scientists and engineers to research farming efficiency, innovative energy systems, water management and biodiversity. Researchers are also focusing on testing climate variability adaptation and technologies in agricultural industries, including how to use water, energy and nutrients more efficiently, with particular attention paid to dairies, orchards and vineyards. With continued funding and support to create industry based partnerships the campus will be well placed to become a premier research and education facility promoting rural and regional sustainability. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Greater Shepparton | Regional |
| GREATER GEELONG CYCLE STRATEGY – VOLUME 1 | Carry out an audit of stop off facilities on off road cycle routes that includes assessment of seating, shade, drinking fountains, toilets etc. | Health and Wellbeing | Access to safe drinking water | Victoria | Greater Geelong | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Economic Development and Social Plan 2017 Р2022 | Sectors that will lead development The Shire’s economic and social development priorities reflect the following economic and social sectors of strategic importance to the shire, in order of importance: • Agriculture Рvitally important this sector remains strong, it provides a base platform for economic and social prosperity across the shire and employment. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Economic Development and Social Plan 2017 Р2022 | Theme 3 Sustaining and Growing Our Communities (economic development, tourism, lifestyle, culture and heritage) Outcome 3.1 We have prosperous and diverse local businesses and a growing economy Identified Community Needs 3.1.3. Encourage and support local business to enhance employment opportunities Action 4.1.3.1 Implement Stage 2 Buy Local in Greater Hume Shire campaign Business Directory distributed to the business database Business Directory promoted to shire residents Buy Local signage installed in Brocklesby, Burrumbuttock, Gerogery, Woomargama, Walbundrie and Morven Online APP version of business directory investigated and costings established Action 4.1.3.2 Seek interest in a buy local shopping promotion | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Economic Development and Social Plan 2017 Р2022 | Sectors that will lead development The Shire’s economic and social development priorities reflect the following economic and social sectors of strategic importance to the shire, in order of importance: • Agriculture Рvitally important this sector remains strong, it provides a base platform for economic and social prosperity across the shire and employment. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Economic Development and Social Plan 2017 Р2022 | The Vision Statement created by Council to guide social and economic growth for Greater Hume is: ‘Greater Hume Shire will be a prosperous rural shire with vibrant sustainable communities offering excellent quality of life, and supported by a thriving agricultural, commercial and industrial base that capitalises on the unique opportunities available through the highest standards of ethics, service and efficiency’. This statement delivers a key message. While commerce and industry are an important part of the region’s growth, so too is quality of life. Council aims to ensure the prosperity of the region through the continued contribution of its key industries and the diversification of its existing economic base, however this is to be done in line with the rural community character of the region [ | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Community Health and Wellbeing Profile and Plan | Housing Greater Hume Shire operates a range of senior and low income housing options. • One bedroom retirement units are located in Culcairn, Holbrook, Jindera and Howlong. • Two bedroom retirement units in Holbrook on both a lease and self-funded basis. • Low income (Social Housing) two and three bedroom community housing in Culcairn. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |
| Greater Hume Shire Community Health and Wellbeing Profile and Plan | Tenant Participation Resource Service program is provided by Intereach to social housing tenants. The program provides information and advice to become more involved in the processes relating to housing. The program also supports planning and running community activities, and can advocate and refer as needed. Homes out West assists in the provision of affordable rental accommodation for people experiencing difficulty with housing needs. The target groups includes: Indigenous people , large families, young people, older people, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people of differing sexual orientation, people with disabilities and those who experience mental health/substance use/ issues etc. | Social Policy | Affordable housing | NSW | Greater Hume | Regional |