The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the recommendations of the Victorian Parliament’s Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee following its inquiry into securing Victoria’s food supply.
VFF President Emma Germano said the recommendations pave the path ahead to address critical challenges in agriculture and food security.
“The Victorian Parliament has sent a clear message that agriculture and food security are priorities for our state. We now need to see this translate into real outcomes that make a difference,” Ms Germano said.
Key recommendations made by the VFF and endorsed by the inquiry include:
- A whole-of-government risk assessment and coordinated food security plan: The VFF is pleased the committee recognised the need for a comprehensive risk assessment across agriculture and supply chains and the implementation of a coordinated plan to safeguard Victoria’s food security.
- Agricultural land mapping and strategic planning: The recommendation to map agricultural land and establish specific strategic land use planning strategies to protect farmland aligns with the VFF’s calls to safeguard agricultural land from competing pressures.
- Fit-for-purpose planning provisions: A review of current planning provisions to ensure they support the ongoing use of farmland for sustainable agriculture is a welcome step toward fostering productivity and long-term agricultural viability.
- Training and guidance for planners: The creation of Planning Practice Notes, guidance materials, and dedicated training for planners in understanding agricultural systems is essential. This will equip planners with the knowledge needed to assess land use proposals and their impacts on various agricultural production systems.
“From just 1.5 per cent of Australia’s landmass, Victorian farmers contribute more than a quarter of the nation’s food and fibre exports. That an enormous economic driver employment driver and it must be protected.”
“Once you lose prime agricultural land, it’s gone forever. We’ll be working to ensure these recommendations become a reality,” Ms Germano said.