Protecting Australia’s food security
Climate disruption is changing life in Australia. From devastating bushfires to catastrophic flooding events and disappearing species - environmental and food supply challenges continue to mount.
In remote Australia, fresh food is often out of reach, especially for Indigenous communities. In very remote areas, almost one in two First Nations households go hungry after running out of food (NIAA 2024). Transport is costly and unreliable; extreme weather makes it worse.
Food for Remote Communities
La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food (LISAF) can deliver an ingenious local solution that is compact and renewable-driven. Protected cropping uses climate-controlled containers as well as recycled water and nutrients to deliver fresh food on-location.
Using less land, water, fertiliser and energy – protected cropping enables more reliable and higher-quality produce. The program is optimised to determine the most suitable foods based on community preferences, as well as determine the most resilient plant varieties.
The project will:
- Install growing systems in remote areas
- Select and grow crops that meet local needs year-round
- Train locals to run systems independently
Supporting self-sufficiency
Bringing together experts in agriculture, nutrition and food, biotechnology and business is unique in Australia – and much of the world. La Trobe’s researchers and specialists are well positioned for success and to work with our regional campuses, TAFE and industry networks to provide training and support.
A community-facing education package will also be provided to ensure that communities can become self-sufficient - with ongoing support available for future crop expansion and diversification.
Australia's food system more fragile than we think
Disruptions in the Persian Gulf have rippled across global supply chains. Exposing how deeply Australia’s food security can be impacted by foreign conflict.
Shielding crops from climate extremes
Nations such as the Netherlands have taken up protected cropping to drastically boost fruit and vegetable exports. But it’s early days in Australia. To expand, the sector will have to overcome barriers.
Our food systems need more nutrient rich plant protein
Emeritus Professor Tony Bacic explores the increasing demand for food across the world and the importance of nutrient-rich food sources to maintain Australia's health.
A sustainable model for the future
This initiative will tackle food insecurity and build a model for sustainable living in remote Australia.
Our changing environment must be confronted head-on. Your investment will fund the next frontier of environmental solutions for a changing Australia.