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The regeneration of Australia’s food and farming systems
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A close up of a green leaf. You can see all of its veins.
Carrots, radishes and cauliflower on a board.
A close up of a green leaf. You can see all of its veins.
Carrots, radishes and cauliflower on a board.
03 May 2023
03 May 2023

Mapping Australia's Food & Farming Systems

Written by Megan O'Malley

Developed by Sustainable Table, the Australian Regenerative Food and Farming Map is the first of its kind. The map provides visibility across the industry, connecting people in ways never before possible, catalysing the transformation of food and farming systems.

Why did we build this map?

The demand for a nationwide industry map was a key outcome of our research in 2021. While many maps and databases exist, these have been primarily region, sector or practice-specific. There hasn’t been a national map or database of Australia’s regenerative food & farming industry and local food system players. Until now.

The map is a practical tool for a range of different ecosystem partners and as the number of organisations and businesses featured on it grows, so too does its impact. As it evolves and extends its reach, it will provide valuable insights into hotspots of innovation and areas for further research, development and funding.

Who does this map benefit?

Industry

Our food and farming industry can use the map to discover what and who is out there. We will be able to learn from each other’s failures and successes, build solidarity, collaborate on projects with shared benefits and co-create change across the sector. Policymakers, consumers and funders will also have greater visibility of those businesses and organisations on the map, making it easier for them to support the work being done on the ground.

Funders

There is a growing interest in the philanthropic and investment community in funding projects that are good for people and the planet. They want to use their capital to enable the regeneration of food and farming but many aren’t sure where to start. At Sustainable Table we are using the map to understand the regen industry from a systems perspective and to guide our decision-making when we connect funders with game-changing projects across the country. There is a limited pool of funding available and we want to be strategic about where it goes.

Consumers

Demand for regenerative food is rising and eaters are ready to get behind those growing and selling it. The map helps them to find growers and change makers close to home that they can connect with and buy from.

Policymakers

Policymakers can use the map to get a better understanding of what the regen industry looks like and how they can support it. As it stands, they don’t have a clear picture of what is happening and how complex it is.

The Planet

We’ve done the maths. More visibility + more support + more collaboration + more co-creating + regeneration = a healthier planet.

How do I put my organisation or business on the map?

The application is in two parts and should take about 30-60 minutes to complete. The Sustainable Table team will then review your application to ensure that you are eligible, aligned and supporting regenerative practices. We don’t expect everyone to be perfect; regeneration is a journey, and the transition can take years. If your application is successful you will be added to the map.

Why is the process so comprehensive? Ultimately it is to ensure the integrity of the platform. We want this map to feature organisations and businesses that are genuinely interested in regenerating our food and farming systems, rather than those that are greenwashing their practices.

If you're a regenerative grower, change maker, retailer or educator you can apply to feature on the map here.