Policy Development
One of our key work areas is to advise on government policy and delivery.
The Victorian Government sets the policy agenda and makes key policy decisions. We assist by identifying policy options and considering implications, including direct and indirect effects on sectors, different parts of the community and regions.
We also shape the delivery of policy by providing legislative options and improving the implementation of existing regulations.
In developing policy, we address current issues while focusing on the longer-term vision for Victoria's primary and energy industries.
Where appropriate, we consult with key stakeholders, including industry groups and affected communities.
Much of our policy development requires a coordinated, whole-of-Victorian-Government approach. In some cases, policy is developed in coordination with national policies, such as those relating to innovation, planning and regulatory reform, water reform and drought.
National policy development
We play a lead role in national policy development and reform for primary industries and energy, and are contributing to:
- a review of national drought policy to help prepare farmers, rural communities and the nation's primary industries for increasing seasonal risk
- identification of biosecurity risks requiring whole-of-government response, and engagement with regional, state and national forums to facilitate response planning
- the support of efficient national energy markets and regulatory frameworks while working to ensure Victoria's energy systems remain safe and reliable
- development of the National Food Plan to ensure that the significance of the Victorian food industry and its contribution to national food security are recognised.
Through our participation on the Primary Industries Ministerial Council (PIMC), we also led the national reform agenda to build capability in agriculture, fisheries and forestry for research, development and practice change. This brought collaboration and PIMC endorsement of a National Research, Development and Extension Framework.
As a member of the Legislative and Governance Forum on Food Regulation (FoFR), we contribute to the development of national food policies and standards that help to protect public health and safety but also support innovation and competitiveness in the food industry.
And through our contributions to the Standing Council on Energy and Resources (SCER), we have worked to ensure that key successes achieved from energy market reform in Victoria are incorporated into reforms nationally.
Primary and energy industry policies
Some of our industry policy work has included:
- facilitating industry adjustment and the management of challenging circumstances e.g. farm debt mediation
- developing legal and policy frameworks for licencing and compliance across the areas of fisheries and game, biosecurity and forestry
- supporting the implementation of national primary production and processing standards in a manner that appropriately manages food safety risks, but does not place unnecessary regulatory burden on agriculture and food businesses
- encouraging the development of Victoria's energy and earth resources in a responsible and sustainable manner in consultation with our communities
- developing energy policies to promote competitive energy markets, efficient regulation and sound Commonwealth institutions
- supporting a portfolio of energy options with technology innovation that links to economic development consistent with maintaining competitive energy prices and a secure energy supply
- project management/delivery of the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (smart meters).
More information about these policy development activities is available in our Annual Report.
You can also find information within the industry sections of this website, or Economics and Policy Research.
