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For vendors + markets

How we work

We develop, support and lead an inclusive network of accredited farmers, makers and farmers’ markets contributing to thriving, sustainable communities and our food security.

We accredit farmers, makers and markets so shoppers can be sure the foods and products they buy are made by the stallholders they meet. In this way, shoppers learn more about where their food comes from and, when they buy, help to strengthen farm and local communities and their wellbeing.

Our core challenge

We want to help young people find paths to farming and markets for their produce, and support our farmer, maker and market members with effective training, marketing and communication tools to build capacity and engage in their communities for the greater good.

We’re also working to respond to climate change, build inclusion, and improve digital access for our vendors and markets.

How we deliver

We build, support and communicate the integrity and value of our accredited farmers, makers and markets through advocacy in communities, with government, through information media and collaboration with farm and business organisations. We care for our reputation and integrity so our views can be voiced and heard in the ‘public square’.

Accreditation

Accreditation sets our markets apart. It means shoppers can be sure they’re buying food from the farmer or maker who produced it, not a re-seller. Accredited stallholders are approved to use the VFMA’s ‘striped-apple’ logo.

Achieving VFMA accreditation shows shoppers that you’re a Victorian producer, and that the products you sell are grown or largely produced using ingredients from Victoria.

We ask you to join the VFMA as a member before you seek accreditation for your produce or products. When you do, and you’re accredited, shoppers can be confident that you’ve met the high standards set by our accreditation panel. Standards are approved by fellow VFMA members and you can read them in our current Member and Accreditation Handbook. Standards are also reviewed for relevance and accredited members audited to maintain standards.

Our network

The Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association is a member of the Australian Farmers’ Markets Association and World Farmers’ Markets Coalition. We also collaborate with the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance, Sustain Australia, Victorian Farmers’ Federation, Farmers for Climate Action, Farmer Incubator, Farmraiser, Slow Food, Sustainable Table, University of Melbourne School of Agriculture Food and Ecosystem Sciences and Burnley Campus (Urban Horticulture), and VicHealth.