Shaping Effective Food Action Groups: Participant Perspectives on Structure and Stakeholder Involvement in Regional...

Food systems strongly influence food security outcomes. Food Action Groups (often termed Food Policy Councils/Coalitions/Networks internationally) offer a co-ordinated and collaborative approach to local food system issues. Their organisational structure and stakeholder membership significantly impact their focus and impact. Therefore, it is imperative to understanding community member and food system stakeholders' perspectives on how regional and remote Australian Food Action Groups should be structured to maximise their impact on local food systems, and identify the most appropriate stakeholders to facilitate and drive their action.

A qualitative study using focus groups, was conducted in regional and remote townships across Western Australian regions of Peel, South West, Great Southern, Wheatbelt, Midwest (including Gascoyne), Goldfields, Pilbara, and Kimberley. Participants were community members and food system stakeholders. Focus group transcript data were thematically analysed.

A formal structure with sustainable funding was important for Food Action Groups, as was adopting a bottom-up approach with local community needs driving the agenda, supported by an adaptable and responsive work plan. Involving community members and ensuring a diverse membership were viewed as critical to their success.

To effectively address local needs, Food Action Groups should adopt a formal structure with clear processes and involve a diverse group of community stakeholders. This would leverage local knowledge and evidence to guide actions and set well-informed priorities.

The establishment of Australian Food Action Groups in regional and remote Australia has potential to follow suit of their US, Canada and UK predecessors, improve regional food systems and influence government policies.