As the first act of its food strategy, the ACT Government has commissioned Natural Capital Economics to study agricultural production and the food system in the ACT and local region to guide and inform policy. 

“This study is ultimately about what we grow, where we’re growing it, and why we’re growing it in the ACT,” Rebecca Vassarotti, ACT Minister for the Environment, Parks and Land Management, said. “Armed with this knowledge, our aim is to provide opportunities for farmers to expand their local produce operations in the Territory, and connect Canberrans with local growers directly.”

The Agriculture and Food in the ACT study is part of the 2023 draft Canberra Food Strategy, which emphasises local food production. 

The study will survey farmers on their businesses and goals for the future, thus providing baseline data about how the local agricultural and food industry operates. It will consider supply chains and consult with the food sector to better understand how to increase food production. It will consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the ACT about developing the bush food and traditional plant industry. 

“Detailed local information is vital to help us reach our goals of increased local food production, better access to fresh, affordable local food for Canberrans, and greater climate resilience,” Ms Vassarotti said.

The final Canberra Region Local Food Strategy 2024-29 will be released later in the year. The value of the contract with Natural Capital Economics is $178,000.