FARMERS’ MARKETS POWER PROVED DPI Victoria Report Just Released

Research undertaken by the Victorian Department of Primary Industry estimates that shoppers at Australian farmers' markets are spending approximately $40 million a year on fresh food and produce purchased directly from farmers and artisan food producers selling regularly in the 80-odd farmers' markets that currently trade in all states.

The 'Report on the Role of New Generation Farmers' Markets' claims the consequent community economic development benefits are estimated to be valued at $80 million, a conservative two-times multiplier of flow-on benefits.

The report conducted by the Future Family Farms section of DPI is the first part of a national survey endorsed by AFMA. Over 50 market managers (63%) responded to the mail survey, the first broad-based research conducted on the operation and benefits of Australian farmers' markets.

The second phase of the project will survey shoppers and stall-holders in each of a rural, regional, and metropolitan farmers' market.

For more details of this significant report check the DPI website: www.dpi.vic.gov.au/farming/smallfarms

The report appears under Item 6: Publications & Research.