The 2025 Foodbank Hunger Report reveals a concerning trend: 20% of Australian households are severely food insecure, marking a 1% increase from the previous year. This means that many Australians are skipping meals or going entire days without eating. The situation is particularly dire for those with disabilities, such as Darwin resident Leah Potter, who must rely on grocery delivery services due to her injury and pre-existing condition. The recent increase in delivery fees has forced her to cut back on her grocery budget, highlighting the financial strain faced by many. As the cost of living rises, even small expenses can significantly impact one's ability to afford food. Ms. Potter has had to make sacrifices, such as eliminating meat from her diet, to stretch her budget further. The report also notes a shift in the demographics of those seeking help at soup kitchens, with an increase in families and individuals who might not typically be associated with homelessness. Food insecurity is a growing problem, affecting one in three Australian households, and it's not limited to those without employment. According to Foodbank Darwin manager Jack Barrett, a wide range of demographics are now turning to food banks for assistance. The federal government's efforts to address the cost of living crisis have not been sufficient, according to Foodbank Australia's CEO, Kylea Tink. She emphasizes that the measures implemented have not translated into more food on people's tables. Instead, the government is being urged to adopt tax incentives to encourage the donation of surplus produce, which would help alleviate food insecurity and ensure that more Australians have access to nutritious meals.
