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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | Food Control and Inspections | Food Quality and Safety | Education on/enforce food safety regulations | NSW | Upper Lachlan | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | TABLELANDS REGIONAL CSP STRATEGIC PILLAR – ENVIRONMENT: PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY – FOOD CONTROL AND INSPECTIONS KPI Conduct food premise inspections of retailers and service providers. Re-inspection of food retailers issued with infringement notices. Performance Measure Delivery Program Actions Performance Status Annual inspection of all food premises. Follow up within 90 days of notice. | Food Quality and Safety | Education on/enforce food safety regulations | NSW | Upper Lachlan | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Council also is a community home support service provider, which includes Meals on Wheels, Community Transport, Health Transport, Social Support, Respite Care and Home Maintenance services | Health and Wellbeing | Nutrition in vulnerable populations | NSW | Hay | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | C4 Community Strategy C4.1 Our community is innovative and adaptive Identify opportunities to grow the agriculture sector 2017-2021 Delivery Program Principal Activities Council Target Priority C4.1.1 Ongoing consultation with agencies and industry groups T4 Identify supply chain gaps and potential new products. Liaise with the agricultural sector, and government departments. 2018/2019 Operational Plan Completion Target 12 Month Review Responsibility CO New investments in agriculture reported. Achieving and ongoing | Sustainability and Environment | Strengthen food chain connections/distribution | NSW | Hay | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | We’ve also been working closely with our local state and federal government representatives to improve the plight of our farmers, tackling issues including changes to farm visas in a bid to ensure the workforce required by our growers, and planning restrictions on farmland. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | Victoria | Mildura | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Another challenge we need to address is the ongoing drought, which is hitting our farmers hard, and the impending increase in water prices, which will present major challenges for some of our horticulture areas. We’re not alone in many of these issues and as a result continue to work closely with bodies including the Municipal Association of Victoria, Regional Cities Victoria and the Murray River Group of Councils. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Mildura | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | We’ve also been working closely with our local state and federal government representatives to improve the plight of our farmers, tackling issues including changes to farm visas in a bid to ensure the workforce required by our growers, and planning restrictions on farmland. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Mildura | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | The first Ramadan Street Food Festival in the Auburn Town Centre which was attended by over 15,000 people | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | NSW | Cumberland | Metropolitan |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Welcomed the Federal Government's commitment to extend the Drought Communities Program to provide $1 million funding to enable us to provide options to improve the outlook for our farmers whose work opportunities have been impacted by the drought. | Economic Development | Local food producers | Victoria | Mildura | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Nammoona Industrial Precinct, Reynolds Road: On the northern outskirts of Casino, this precinct includes existing industrial activities such as Council’s waste and recycling facility, Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange, DTM Timber, Northern Cooperative Meat Company, Riverina Stockfeeds and 59 hectares of vacant industrial land. The precinct is designated as a key industrial expansion zone in the Richmond Valley, generating employment, business activity and revenue for the local community. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Casino Showgrounds Master Plan Council has developed an exciting master plan for the Casino showgrounds which identifies a number of key upgrades to complement the existing racing facilities. Key among these is the establishment of an onsite equestrian centre, which would provide a significant boost for the growing equine sport industry. The full list of planned upgrades include: • The construction of an indoor arena for equestrian and other agricultural events | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Northern Rivers Rail Trail In May 2013, the not-for-profit community group, Northern Rivers Rail Trail Association Inc, was formed by local philanthropists known as the Sourdough Group, community volunteers, local government councillors and staff, and leaders of the tourist industry. The group came together with a common vision to preserve this very valuable community asset, the 130km of disused rail corridor between Casino and Murwillumbah and converting it to a modern cycle and walking trail through the region’s spectacular landscapes. Since then, momentum towards this vision has been growing steadily. In 2018, Tweed Shire Council secured the funding required to design and construct a 24km section of trail at the northern end of the corridor. Tweed Shire received $6.5 million each from the Australian and NSW governments with construction of its section of trail set to start in 2020. At the same time Richmond Valley Council joined with Lismore City Council to help fund a business case for the Casino to Eltham section, a 45km stretch of trail that will wind through some of the most scenic pastoral locations in the country. The business case costed the Casino to Eltham section at $33.3 million with a positive cost benefit analysis indicating it would deliver a net economic benefit to the region. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has since committed an initial $7.5 million to build the first section from Casino to Bentley, which runs for 13km. This funding also includes $450,000 for restoration of the old Casino train station at the southern head of the trail. The rail trail will be for the local community to use for getting to school, work and sport, shopping and recreation and by visitors seeking either a new way to experience the region’s scenery, food and culture or a more adventurous experience. The other significant benefit of a rail trail for any community is the opportunity for healthy activity and exercise. Council’s Project Management Office has begun working on the planning stages of the Casino to Bentley section, while also collaborating with neighbouring councils and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail Group to realise the full potential of the project from Casino to Murwillumbah. Casino to Eltham section: Estimated total cost of project Р$33,300,000 Committed Funding: $7,500,000 (Casino to Bentley) РAustralian Government Funding required to complete project: $25,500,000 | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | • Full redesign and upgrade of rails and pens in the dip area • Solar panel technology for energy efficiency • Extensive steelwork upgrade to rails and gates • Full upgrade to receival and delivery areas including ramp scanners and cameras • New 90 space sealed carpark with line marking and traffic stops • Extensive upgrades to the Canteen and Scale House • Extension to the canteen building to create a new administration hub and secure Local Land Services as a tenant • Buyers lounge in the canteen for live sale viewing • Specialised transit cattle yards with a new B Double ramp • New maintenance shed • Public paths and extensive information and safety signage throughout • Improvements with work on the stormwater channels, effluent ponds and discharge points • Landscaping and outdoor furniture Total cost of project Р$14,000,000 Committed funding: $7,000,000 РNSW Government $3,500,000 РAustralian Government $3,500,000 РRichmond Valley Council | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | 190,976 Cattle 1,139,717 Sheep 6,905 Goats 5,434 Livestock Truck Washes | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Dubbo | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Delivering for our community The $14 million upgrade of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) was completed 21 June 2019. The efficiencies gained through the upgrade provided livestock agents the opportunity to present cattle to a high standard and has ensured better animal welfare and management and better safety for both people and animals. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | DUBBO REGIONAL LIVESTOCK MARKETS | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Dubbo | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Drought Convoy Richmond Valley Council partnered with Kyogle and Lismore councils to transport hay and make water deliveries to drought-stricken farmers in and around Narrabri in August 2018. Council decided to be part of the convoy after staff came forward wanting to help farmers in the west of the State, which led to talks with local business and community groups to facilitate the best approach. Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow was proud of Council staff’s involvement and stated it was the perfect example of mates helping mates. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Continued a wide range of regulatory functions including: companion animals, building and town planning development application assessments, construction certificates, plumbing certificates, and food premises inspections. | Food Quality and Safety | Education on/enforce food safety regulations | NSW | Uralla | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | HIGHLIGHTS • Commencement of work on the $7 million second stage of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange, Casino | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Highlights of Signature Projects With several signature projects across the Richmond Valley coming to fruition over the past 12 months, Council has proven its ability to manage the delivery of major projects for its community. Three major projects either completed or substantially underway in 2019 including the $14 million Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange, the Woodburn Riverside Park, and the Casino Drill Hall precinct. Council is also managing the delivery of the Casino to Eltham stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, in particular the Casino to Bentley section which has received $7.5 million in funding from the Federal Government. Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) The recently completed, two stage $14m upgrade of the NRLX has marked a new era in livestock sales in Northern NSW. The project has transformed the old Casino saleyards into a truly modern facility which achieves world-class outcomes in animal welfare, comfort, efficiency and environmental sustainability. Key features include a 26,000sqm roof providing both shade and stormwater capture, soft flooring throughout, and water tanks with a 1.14 megalitre collection capacity, realising an 86% reduction in water usage. The improved standard of animal welfare achieved through the upgrade of the facility has ensured livestock are well presented along with best practice safety measures to ensure separation of people and the animals. The two stages have delivered: • Roof area 24,300 square metres 162m X 150m • 20,200 square metres of industry standard soft floor at 150mm thickness • Two semi-automatic, four-way pneumatic drafts and eight new drafting pens • Installation of a veterinary crush adjacent to the pneumatic draft • 50 new selling pens and 12 new dual-purpose mustering or selling pens • Rail, gate and trough upgrade • Stamped concrete in draft area • New energy efficient LED lighting and spotlights throughout • IT capabilities for future live sale streaming and full CCTV security coverage • Dust suppression sprays over soft floor • Stormwater roof collection of 1,144 kilolitres into two new rainwater tanks • Perimeter security fence and AVDATA entry gate technology • Weighbridge and scale area redesign for more efficient flow and processing • Fully upgraded truck wash facility with B Double capable wash bays • Specialised bull wash pens | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Nammoona Industrial Precinct, Reynolds Road: On the northern outskirts of Casino, this precinct includes existing industrial activities such as Council’s waste and recycling facility, Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange, DTM Timber, Northern Cooperative Meat Company, Riverina Stockfeeds and 59 hectares of vacant industrial land. The precinct is designated as a key industrial expansion zone in the Richmond Valley, generating employment, business activity and revenue for the local community. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Norco Primex Field Days | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | NRLX Stage Two Works commenced on Stage 2 of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange at Casino, with works wholly funded by the NSW Government. Redevelopment of the NRLX will ensure Casino’s beef industry continues to thrive. Richmond Valley Council is managing the project, with stage two including a new roof and soft floor, together with the renovation of holding pens. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Significant development applications approved included the $4.9 million construction of the new Evans Head HealthOne, $10 million renovations and enhancements of the Richmond Lodge aged care facility in Casino, stage two upgrades to the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange totalling $6.5 million, | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Richmond Valley | Regional |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Bega Saleyards | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Bega | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | Coordinate a program of business events ‚óè The Canterbury-Bankstown Business Advisory Service delivered programs and workshops throughout the year, including Multicultural Starting your Own Food Business workshops in Vietnamese and Arabic, | Economic Development | Food related job creation | NSW | Canterbury Bankstown | Metropolitan |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | Huge benefits from saleyards upgrade Expenditure: $790,000 Strategic outcome: 2 РGoal 3 6 РGoal 12 Local primary producers are the major beneficiaries of an upgrade to the Bega Saleyards. Funding under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program enabled upgrades to the site amenities, renovation of the site office, improved signage and fencing, creation of a community meeting room, installation of rubber matting livestock pens and a renewal of the effluent management infrastructure. The project scope was developed following consultation with local farming groups and co-operatives, support organisations, and major agricultural businesses. The saleyards support over 2,000 traders who attend sale days each year from across our Shire, Eurobodalla, Snowy-Monaro and East Gippsland. For the regional agricultural community, they are a key focal point to meet and discuss a range of industry trends, issues and opportunities, and are a space for socialisation and peer support in times of hardship and drought. These works immensely improve the functionality, accessibility, safety and amenity of the site and lead to positive economic flow-on effects. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Bega | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | To assist disadvantaged residents to increase their community connections, develop horticulture skills and gain work experience. | Economic Development | Food related job creation | NSW | Canterbury Bankstown | Metropolitan |
| Annual Report 2018-2019 | we worked with primary producers on a major upgrade to the Bega Saleyards. | Economic Development | Local food producers | NSW | Bega | Regional |
| ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 | Major Events: • Undertake an events review • Deliver the 2018-19 calendar of major events • Events Service Review completed • 2018-19 major events included: РBankstown Bites РHaldon Street Festival РInvictus Games РLighting of the Tree РCarols in the Park РPadstow Carols РShine the Light for victims of the Christchurch earthquake РMake Music Day РAustralia Day РLunar New Year РSeniors Week Program РCampsie Food Festival РFood truck activation events РJensen Park synthetic playing field opening РRamadan Nights | Economic Development | Local food initiatives for economic development | NSW | Canterbury Bankstown | Metropolitan |