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Food Systems Information Hub

Whether we like it or not, we are all part of the food system. So, what exactly is it? And how does it impact me?

Three women are kneeling in a garden harvesting fresh produce. The sun is shining. At the bottom of the frame is an illustration of a bush, a worm and a bee.
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Let's unpack it

  • What exactly are the food systems?

    From growing, picking and delivering food, right through to selling, eating and disposing of it, the food system is a complex web of activities. It influences our access to affordable, healthy, sustainable and culturally appropriate food. Put simply, it’s everything your food goes through before appearing on your plate.

  • What are the challenges?

    Today, we know food affects our health, wellbeing, cultures, the economy and our environments.

    We also know our increased access to food has decreased our understanding and connection to the production, consumption and disposal of food. 

  • What can be done about it?

    We need to reconnect to the different aspects of the system. And to do this we educate people not only on where we are currently in the system but also where we could be. 


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VicHealth's role in this space

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Our role is to advocate, influence, and invest in the food system to make sure that all Victorians can enjoy delicious, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable food. But we know that systemic barriers can make it difficult for some communities to access these foods. That's why we're committed to unpacking these barriers and taking meaningful action to dismantle them is a core focus for us over the next decade. 

Read more in our strategy 


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About the food systems

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Actors and influences


What impacts people's ability to access healthy and sustainable food?

 

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Who we work with 

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Our partners


Impacting change in this space requires collaboration from different communities. 

 

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Future food leaders


We're working with a bunch of partners to upskill young people in the food space.

 


Who's changing the system?

An abandoned high school soccer pitch in Drysdale is now a productive farm that educates students in world-changing agricultural practices.

Cookaborough is a new, innovative Australian tech platform that connects local cooks to elderly eaters in a joyous circle of nourishment and community.

Torres Strait Islander Chef Nornie Bero is representing her culture through food. Behind the scenes, Mabu Mabu sources from First Nations, queer-led, women-led and environmentally conscious producers, empowering other changemakers.

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Artwork by Dexx (Gunditjmara/Boon Wurrung) ‘Mobs Coming Together’ 2022
VicHealth acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land. We pay our respects to all Elders past, present and future.
This website may contain images, names and voices of deceased people.

VicHealth acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.

Artwork Credit: Dexx (Gunditjmara/Boon Wurrung) ‘Mobs Coming Together’ 2022, acrylic on canvas. Learn more about this artwork.