Struggling Aussies forced to choose between buying medication or groceries as cost of living crisis continues to bite

Advocates say families struggling with the cost of living crisis are going hungry as they await the findings of an inquiry into Victoria’s food security.

As the cost of living crisis pushes more Australians into food insecurity, pressure is mounting on state and federal governments to take action.

About a third of the nearly 180 submissions to a food security survey in Victoria came from struggling families, said Nick Rose, executive director of Sustain: The Australian Food Network.

“The overwhelming message these people are giving is that they are struggling, that they are eating less, that the quality of food is deteriorating and that they are having to choose between buying medication and eating it themselves,” Dr Rose told AAP.

‘There was also a lot of anger towards the supermarkets, which was another clear theme that emerged.’

About one in three Australians face moderate to severe food insecurity and difficult choices at daily meals, according to the country’s largest food bank.

The organization’s headquarters in Victoria had to launch an emergency food drive in early August to restock shelves due to unprecedented demand and increasing donations.

“Meanwhile, Victoria exports most of the food we grow,” Dr Rose said.

Federal government data shows that Australia exports about 72 percent of the food it produces nationally, with Victoria accounting for almost a quarter of total agricultural production.

“Given our status as a net food exporter, combined with our prosperity, it is an indictment on our food system that food insecurity is so high despite abundant production,” said Dr. Rose.

Sustain made about 30 recommendations to the inquiry, including establishing a state-wide food systems and security strategy and appointing a minister to oversee it.

There are also plans to free up $250 million, which will be financed by extending the existing payroll tax surcharge for large companies.

“That funding mechanism already exists and we see a clear and compelling case for a modest expansion to effectively support community members. Community organizations are already in the midst of this crisis,” Dr. Rose said.

Victoria’s Legal and Social Affairs Commission will report on the inquiry in November, but Dr Rose has historically been disappointed with the state and federal government’s responses.

As the cost of living crisis pushes more Australians into food insecurity, pressure is mounting on state and federal governments to take action (stock image)

“At best, we see the implementation of a few simple recommendations, alongside a ‘plan to make a plan’ that is renewed every few years,” he said.

“At worst, they are shelved, there is little engagement, and the ubiquitous voices of advocates fall into the hands of unwary ears.”

‘We, and many others, demand that the State Government take immediate, strong action to ensure a prosperous, healthy, sustainable and equitable food system for all Victorians.’