The Central Highlands region of Victoria has an agricultural industry that contributes substantially to the regional economy. The Central Highlands Grower and Producers Hub is dedicated to supporting regional, small scale artisanal food producers. In 2023, Commerce Ballarat, a leading independent business group, was appointed to support the Central Highlands Growers and Producers Hub and to deliver long-term sustainability for agribusinesses across the region.

Commerce Ballarat and the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub have partnered with Federation University’s Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation (CeRDI) to undertake research about the experiences and priorities of small-scale growers, producers and associated retailers in the Central Highlands. This research is focused on examining business expectations and expansion, current challenges, and opportunities for businesses in the small-scale agriculture sector.

This research provides important insights about stakeholder needs across the Central Highlands region. The results will inform future directions and the provision of tailored support and training for grower-producers and other businesses across the region.It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.