Council puts food risks on the table

CASEY residents can provide feedback about the council’s role in ensuring the availability of nutritious food for the Draft Food Security Policy.
City of Casey Mayor Sam Aziz said a large number of Casey’s residents were currently at risk of food insecurity, meaning the availability of nutritious food and people’s access to it.
“It is expected that in the future, the community will be further impacted by food price rises and shortages due to adverse environmental conditions, water shortages, loss of agricultural land, peak oil and the cost of essential services,” Cr Aziz said.
“The council can take a role in increasing food security for residents by working with residents, community organisations, businesses and other government agencies to address this emerging issue.
“By identifying food security as an issue that may impact upon residents, council aims to plan and act now to ensure a positive outcome for residents in the future.”
The draft policy illustrates the council’s intent to address five key areas in order to improve community food access.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the Draft Food Security Policy online by visiting the council’s website at www.casey.vic.gov.au/currentconsultations or to receive a hard copy, residents can contact City of Casey Customer Service on 9705 5200 by Friday 9 March 2012.