Have Your Say on the Future of Agriculture and Food Security in the Byron Shire

If you’re a farmer, landholder, food producer, or interested in the future of agriculture and food security in Byron Shire, Council wants to hear from you.

 Council is seeking community and industry feedback to help shape a new 10-year Agriculture Action Plan, which will be developed later this year and released for further public comment before it is finalised.

 "We're updating our Agriculture Action Plan and this is an opportunity for people to tell us what's happening on the ground right now," Council's Agriculture Extension Officer, Mark Duncan, said. "We want to hear from farmers, producers, landholders, food businesses and community members about the challenges they're facing, as well as the opportunities they see for the future of agriculture and food security in the Byron Shire. Whether you're a small-scale grower, a larger producer, involved in livestock, macadamias, horticulture, agroforestry or permaculture, or thinking about entering the sector, we'd love to hear from you."

 Agriculture plays a vital role in Byron Shire's economy, identity and landscape, with around 58 per cent of the Shire's land used for agricultural purposes. The sector supports local jobs, contributes to food security and helps maintain the character and sustainability of the region.

 "With increasing pressures from climate change, rising costs and global uncertainty, it's important that we plan for a resilient and productive local food system," Mr Duncan said.

 The Agriculture and Food Security consultation is open on Council's Your Say page until 23 August 2026.

 To participate, complete the online survey via Your Say, contact Council's Customer Service Team on 02 6676 7000, or visit Council's Mullumbimby office to complete a hard-copy survey.

 Council staff will also be available to answer questions and discuss the project at:

• Thursday 6 August – Byron Farmers Market

• Friday 7 August – Mullumbimby Farmers Market

 Feedback gathered during this consultation will help inform the development of the new 10-year Agriculture Action Plan, which aims to strengthen local food systems and support a resilient agricultural sector. A draft plan will be released later this year for further community feedback.

 Have your say via Council's Your Say page before 23 August 2026.