A recent survey conducted by The Salvation Army highlights the distressing realities faced by disadvantaged Australians amid a cost-of-living crisis. The study surveyed 3,586 vulnerable individuals who relied on the organisation for food, financial assistance, or material support.
The findings reveal a stark situation, particularly for families with children. A staggering 62% of parents reported forgoing meals to ensure their children could eat, while one in twenty admitted to scavenging food from rubbish bins. Over 40% expressed an inability to purchase essentials like baby formula and nappies, and a third struggled to afford basic non-prescription medications like paracetamol.
The emotional toll of financial strain was encapsulated in the words of a 30-year-old working mother who felt overwhelmed and “extremely depressed”. Despite being employed as a public servant, she grappled with feelings of inadequacy in providing for her family, even contemplating quitting her job to reduce commuting costs.
The survey further indicated that a third of respondents had turned to buy now, pay later services to manage essential expenses, including food and utilities. The inability to afford fresh food and medication was widespread; 43% of those surveyed reported reducing their water usage to save on bills, while 20% experienced living in darkness to cut electricity costs.
Major Bruce Harmer from The Salvation Army described the findings as heartbreaking, expressing shock over the extent of hardship in a country like Australia. He emphasised that no one should have to consume expired food or resort to eating from bins.
These alarming insights precede the charity’s annual Red Shield Appeal, which aims to raise $38 million to maintain its 2,000 services that help Australians in need. Overall, the survey underscores the severe impact of economic challenges on vulnerable communities, revealing an urgent need for support and systemic change.