Food systems and the role of local government

Abstract

This document aims to assist local governments in Victoria to develop a coordinated and equitable approach to optimising food systems. This has become critical at a time when international commitments to local food systems are growing, and yet in Australia corresponding commitments from higher tiers of government are lagging. Advocating for state and federal action to improve health and well being is a core responsibility of local governments. To support them in this task,the paper offers clear and easily citeable position statements on three fundamental challenges: Health and Wellbeing, Economic Development, and Planning.