Austrdasalians Embrace Homegrown Food Amid Space Constraints

A recent report by The Australia Institute, in collaboration with Grow It Local, reveals that approximately 45% of Australians—around 9 million people—cultivate some of their own food. The primary motivations include accessing healthy produce (69%) and saving money (60%).  

Key Findings:

Demographics: Younger Australians (aged 18–39) show significant interest in home gardening, with nearly 78% expressing a desire to grow their own food.

Barriers: A lack of space is the most cited obstacle, with 61% of respondents identifying it as a hindrance to home cultivation.

Cultivation Practices: Among those who grow food, 84% focus on vegetables, while 55% cultivate fruit trees and herbs.

Environmental Impact: Two-thirds of these gardeners engage in composting or worm farming, collectively diverting an estimated 361,000 tonnes of waste from landfills annually—equivalent to seven Sydney Harbour Bridges.

Implications:

The report underscores a strong national interest in home gardening, particularly among younger demographics. However, spatial limitations, especially in urban areas, pose significant challenges. The findings suggest a need for increased support for community gardens and educational programs to empower more Australians to grow their own food, thereby enhancing access to fresh produce and promoting environmental sustainability.