food
SYSTEMS

Our food system is in urgent need of transformation. Many communities across Greater Melbourne struggle with food affordability, access to nourishing food close to home, and our environment is struggling with impact of our current food practices.

Food is a powerful gateway to social and cultural connection, fostering a personal relationship with the natural world. Our food system is intricately linked with the broader urban environment and holds immense potential for driving societal transformation.

Currently, the food system is struggling to support human and environmental health or withstand climate-related challenges. By localising and regenerating our food systems, honouring First Nations knowledge, supporting Safe and Just solutions, and uniting the sector towards a common goal, we aim to create a resilient and sustainable food system for Greater Melbourne.

The first phase of our work in food systems was sensemaking, understanding what is currently happening, who is currently involved and the opportunities for transformation and you can read about it all here.

“Food is the currency of life” - Vandana Shiva

Melbourne has long been celebrated as a foodie haven, where we take great pleasure in enjoying delicious food. However, this pleasure is limited to a privileged few. To address this disparity, various groups—including social enterprises, food relief agencies, government bodies, nonprofits, and philanthropists—have been working together to create a fairer, more regenerative food system.

One notable initiative is Moving Feast, where social enterprises across Melbourne collaborated to provide culturally appropriate food to communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regen Melbourne is committed to building on such innovations as it develops the broader vision for Regen Food.

Lead Convenor:

Dheepa Jeyapalan

How to get involved:

We are currently talking to many food system partners and if you would like to get involved please email our portfolio lead, Dheepa at dheepa@regen.melbourne