Research, reports and publications
We think that sharing and collaborating is the best way to move things forward. Our research aims to provide independent and evidence-based advice to help communities survive and thrive
Is the Northern Rivers food system resilient?
20 June 2023
Floods, bushfires and the COVID pandemic have made the Northern Rivers food system one of the most vulnerable in Australia in 2023.
A new study conducted by Plan C, UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures, and Wild Community, funded by the Northern Rivers Community Foundation, aims to address these issues by exploring the state of food chains in the Northern Rivers.
One of the major findings of the study is the lack of a coordinated government approach to disaster food security, with the burden of addressing food insecurity falling on the community.
This study presents ten key recommendations for transitioning to a circular food economy in the Northern Rivers. These recommendations include the development of regional food policies and planning, delivering rapid response across the food supply chain during disasters, strengthening food system connections and collaborations, and supporting local food champions and community food efforts. The report emphasizes the need to support food charities, build food hubs, protect arable land for food production, amplify Indigenous voices in the food system and develop a comprehensive knowledge base.