Mapping Melbourne's Peri-Urban Agricultural Land

Since at least the 1940’s, concerns have been raised repeatedly about the loss of some of Victoria’s most productive land due to Melbourne’s urban expansion. The loss of high productive areas suitable for horticulture (fruit and vegetable growing) has been of particular concern.

This study was initiated by VicHealth, assisted by contributions from Mornington Peninsular and Casey Shires, to explore the extent to which fruit and vegetable production around Melbourne is at risk from changing stress factors. The study and the maps and data generated are intended to improve understanding of land capability for agriculture, and initiate a system for consistent and public access to and use of this information. It is intended to guide stakeholders and decision-makers who value protecting high quality agricultural land for food production, even in the face of competing land use pressures.

Visit the VEIL (Victorian Eco Innovation Lab) website for further details about the Mapping Melbourne’s Peri-Urban Agricultural Land Capability project.