Fresh vegetable prices could go through the roof - if changes to freshwater management go ahead

A new report from the Institute of Economic Research reveals a head of broccoli could jump to 27 dollars a kilo, or nine dollars a head - under proposed regulations to reduce nitrogen run-off.

It finds the vegetable production could be severely impacted depending on how councils interpret and translate the new rules.

It draws on research estimating a 20 percent reduction in vegetable supply could push prices up at least 20 percent.

Chief economist Chris Nixon says we need targeted reforms that support our environmental goals and food affordability.