2023-09-08
Today, the ACT Government is releasing a Canberra first food strategy for community consultation.
Minister for the Environment Rebecca Vassarotti said the strategy builds on the engagement with the ACT community last year, which showed strong support from Canberrans for a formal strategy to secure our local food production.
“This strategy heralds a new approach from the ACT Government to how we value local food production as part of delivering on our vision for Canberra as a vibrant, liveable, affordable and climate-resilient city.” said Minister Vassarotti.
“The Draft Canberra Region Local Food Strategy is the first of its kind for the ACT and will help guide the future planning and management of the region’s rural and urban agricultural production through a roadmap for a sustainable and resilient local food system.
“We are in a climate crisis. Harnessing the power of local food production is a vital step in our community's fight to drastically reduce the greenhouse gas emissions caused by imported foods.
“Through this strategy, Canberra will be able to learn from other city-regions that have worked to build strong, vibrant and sustainable local food systems that connect urban and rural communities.
"Our strategy charts a path for the government and community, guiding us towards a future characterised by thriving local food production.
“It outlines four key objectives: to foster greater local food production and consumption, promote equitable access to healthy food, encourage economic and social prosperity through robust food systems and uphold sustainable urban and rural farming practices.
“We want to hear from the community and those in the local food production industry about what they think of the draft strategy, and what the Government can do to support them.
“The strategy will strengthen access to fresh, healthy and affordable food, all while building valuable community connections.” said Minister Vassarotti.
Consultation is open until 20 October 2023.
Visit the YourSay Conversations website for more information on the Draft Canberra Region Local Food Strategy, as well as an online community session this month.