This inquiry was completed in the 57th parliament.

For more information on this inquiry, contact the Committees office:

Phone: (03) 8682 2800

Email: cso@parliament.vic.gov.au

Read the terms of reference

Terms of reference

The terms of reference are instructions which explain what a committee has been asked to do, what topics it should focus on, and how its members will work together to achieve its shared goals.

Received from the Legislative Assembly on 9 October 2008.

To inquire, consider and report to Parliament on the major issues relating to the production, processing and distribution of agricultural products in the interface municipalities and peri-urban areas of Melbourne. In particular, the Committee is requested to:

  1. Identify the types of agricultural sectors operating in interface municipalities and peri-urban areas;
  2. Examine the role of agribusiness in enhancing economic growth, increasing jobs and the sector’s contribution towards promoting healthy, sustainable and prosperous outer suburban areas;
  3. Investigate the role of planning in encouraging the development of agribusiness;
  4. Analyse the options for sustainable food production, including environmental stewardship and local food production;
  5. Investigate impediments faced by the industry to its long term growth and sustainability and recommend options to resolve these barriers;
  6. Highlight niche and well performing sectors operating in the interface of Melbourne, with particular reference to viticulture, horticulture and sustainable agriculture;
  7. Examine exemplary programs supported by governments (at all levels), the private sector and non-government organisations, which assist the sustainability of the agribusiness sector; and
  8. Investigate national and international initiatives relevant to these issues.