AFMA's Contribution to Sustainable Cities

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Environment and Heritage enquiry into Sustainable Cities 2025 last week invited AFMA, represented by Chair Jane Adams, to present its view on the role and contribution of farmers� markets in future Australian cities.

The 45-minute presentation in conjunction with Australian Community Foods outlined the significance of food to city life and the economic, health, nutrition and social benefits of farmers� markets to Australian urban and regional cities. The Sustainable Cities 2025 inquiry, chaired by Mr Bruce Billson, Dunkley, Victoria, is looking at issues and policies relating to the impacts of urban development, measures to reduce the environmental, social and economic costs of continuing urban expansion and mechanisms for the Commonwealth government to bring about reform. The inquiry is also looking to develop a blueprint for ecologically sustainable patterns of city settlement and equity in the provision of services and infrastructure. The 10-member committee responded positively to AFMA�s request that current and future urban planning and design consider the incorporation of public space for farm-direct food markets. The AFMA Charter was tabled as part of the submission.