Since its more than 500 ‘careholders’ took ownership in 2018, Food Connect Shed has:
Food hubs are regionally based, shared-use facilities that make it easier for farmers and small food businesses to reach markets on fair terms. They aggregate produce, provide essential infrastructure, offer business support and connect small and regenerative producers with local buyers.
By integrating commercial operations with social enterprise principles, food hubs strengthen regional economies, shorten supply chains and help communities access nutrient-dense food.
They also create circular, regenerative feedback loops that improve landscape health and community resilience.
The new report shows how a national network of these hubs could be funded and built and the investment opportunity it presents for the regions.
By replicating Food Connect Shed’s model, communities, government and industry can collaborate to address the critical “missing middle” between farm production and mainstream markets.
Emma-Kate said Food Connect Shed proved what was possible when communities invested in their own future.
“This report captures what we’ve learnt and demonstrates how regional food hubs can replicate that success to rebuild the infrastructure Australia urgently needs — for farmers, for our health, for climate, for secure access to food,” she said.
“Our strategy is a practical roadmap for more communities to follow and strengthen the resilience of our food system for the long term.”
