Factors driving horticulture productivity
4 August 2025This project aims to increase vegetable consumption among Australian children by delivering immersive, hands-on learning experiences through the VEG Education Farm Gate and Mobile Farm Pilot. By engaging students directly with vegetables and the horticulture industry, the initiative seeks to shift attitudes, improve knowledge, and encourage healthier eating behaviours. The program aligns with the Plus One Serve initiative and uses pre- and post-experience surveys to evaluate changes in participants’ willingness to try new vegetables and adopt healthier dietary habits.
The project addresses key barriers to vegetable consumption such as affordability, food waste, and preparation challenges. By fostering positive attitudes and behaviours early in life, it supports long-term dietary change and the development of lifelong vegetable-eating habits. The pilot will also generate valuable insights to inform future strategies for sustained behaviour change, contributing to broader public health outcomes and a stronger connection between young Australians and the horticulture sector.
This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.