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In design
Melbourne's markets play a vital role in supporting thriving local food economies, providing access to fresh, affordable and culturally diverse food, sustaining independent livelihoods, and creating spaces for community connection. Yet much of their economic, social and cultural value remains poorly recognised in the decisions that shape our city. Recent research suggests that the total value of their economic, social and environmental benefits could be four to five times the value of the wages and profits generated directly by stallholders.
Melbourne's four municipal markets are part of a wider network of independent food businesses supported by Australia's only publicly owned wholesale fresh produce market. This distinctive infrastructure is fragile, and protecting and strengthening it is critical to sustaining the independent food economies it supports.
Through the Nourished Neighbourhoods Earthshot, we're exploring how Melbourne can better recognise, protect and strengthen its existing markets, while creating the conditions for new ones to flourish. We see markets as a powerful lever for building a more equitable, resilient and regenerative food system, and helping Melbourne move towards a safe and just future.
Regen Melbourne is working to bring together market owners, traders, communities, researchers and policymakers to better understand and demonstrate the value of markets, surface their stories, and build a shared vision for their future. Through research, storytelling, advocacy and convening, we aim to strengthen the case for protecting and strengthening existing markets, and support the development of new ones across Melbourne.
Explore more resources
Research, guides, and stories from the work underway.
