Major Funding for Victorian Farmers' Markets Media Release Wednesday 8 November 2006 For Immediate Release

The Minister for Agriculture, Bob Cameron, announced on Monday that a re-elected Labor Government will provide $2 million to support farmers' markets as a community based option for farmers to deliver their products directly to consumers.

The financial commitment arises following a series of independently facilitated consultative workshops conducted for the Victorian Farmers' Markets Association in July 2006, with producers, managers, local Government and community groups which confirmed overwhelming support and identified the next steps for Victorian farmers' markets.

From these workshops the Victorian Farmers' Markets Association has identified priority projects including accreditation procedures, business development for primary producers, guidelines for market establishment and participation, and community food programs.

The Victorian Farmers' Markets Association is delighted the Victorian Government has demonstrated an understanding of the economic and social benefits farmers' markets provide Victorian communities and primary producers.

Sophie O'Neil, President of the Victorian Farmers' Markets Association, said she is pleased Victorian Government has committed to undertake a staged development program facilitating the continued growth of sustainable farmers' markets in Victoria.

"The Government's announced funding proposal acknowledges the positive benefits of farmers' markets in terms of economic development, business incubation and community capacity building. This is a great step towards every Victorian household being provided access, enjoyment and an understanding of locally grown, fresh produce".

"The funding would be of critical significance in promoting the benefits of farmers' markets to primary producers across the State and encourage increased participation."

• The first farmers' market started in Victoria in 1999 with over 40 at present

• The Victorian Farmers' Markets Association was established in 2003 and currently operates on a voluntary basis representing farmers, producers, market managers, community groups and local Government.

• In 2004 the Department of Primary Industries in Victoria undertook national research which indicated that farmers' markets generate an approximate turnover of $40 million annually with an estimated net annual benefit to communities across Australia of around $80 million.

For further information please call Sophie O'Neil on 03 5942 7057 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              03 5942 7057      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 0414 559 338 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              0414 559 338