2026

Building climate resilience and health through community food infrastructure - VicHealth Impact Grant 2026-2028

This research explores how agroecology can improve climate resilience, equitable food systems, and support Caring for Country. Agroecology combines ecological farming, democratic participation, and community-led approaches to build food systems that improve soil health, reduce emissions, support local economies, and strengthen cultural connection.  

Victoria has a growing agroecology movement, yet many face barriers such as regulatory constraints, limited access to land, funding, and a lack of fit-for-purpose processing and distribution infrastructure.

Research team: Dr Mirella Gavidia, Dr Katherine Sievert, Dr Tammi Jonas, Mr Antoine Lenique, Dr Vicki Brown, Professor Andrew Butt

Partners: Agroecology and Food Sovereignty Alliance (AFSA), Healthy Food Systems Australia (HFSA), Meat Collective @ Jonai, Whittlesea Food Collective, Merri Food Hub, Melbourne Farmers Markets, Tumpinyeri Growers