Background – The VicHealth initiative Food for All: Improving access to food for healthy eating. A food security program will progress Victorian improvement in food security through a number of creative projects over several years. One of these projects is the e-based Food Security Network (1) auspiced by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA).
Objectives – The network aims to provide support for local governments and other stakeholders, who are working with their communities to reduce barriers to local food access for healthy eating, and to improve food security. Design – The VLGA website provides up to date news and events in the local government sector. Open access to the network provides entry to links for other organizations and resources related to food security. The discussion forum creates a space for ongoing interactive debate, discussion, support and resources around the issues of food security, particularly those in local government areas. This information can be accessed by anyone. The actual discussants have been initially restricted to organisations or individuals in Victoria who are registered discussion group members.
Outcomes – After one year of operation, questionnaire evaluation of the evolving website indicates that it is beginning to fulfil the purpose intended, with 70 registered members from local governments and a range of other settings. Local food policies and municipal public health plans linked to municipal strategy statements and corporate plans include opportunities for improving food security through the natural, built, economic, social- cultural, and health environments for residents in all neighbourhoods. Other important stakeholders include residents, self-help groups and clubs, primary health care partnerships, primary health care agencies, community services, welfare organisations, and health institutions such as local hospitals.
Conclusion – The Food Security Network provides information and support for local governments who have a whole of population responsibility and for other stakeholders who can contribute to improved community health and well-being through equitable and local food chain systems.
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