A recent survey by ACOSS reveals that nearly three-quarters of income support recipients are cutting back on essential items like meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables due to the low rate of payments and rising cost of living.
The survey, conducted in July and August 2024, involved 760 people receiving JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payment. The findings paint a grim picture of the current situation for many Australians.
Key findings from the research show that 71% of respondents are reducing their intake of meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables, with 51% skipping meals altogether. Additionally, 74% are struggling to afford necessary medication or medical care.
The low-income support rates are having a significant impact on mental and physical health, with 92% reporting negative effects on their mental health and 84% on their physical health.
Further, 68% of participants are cutting back on heating or cooling their homes, while over half are limiting their use of lights. Shockingly, 42% go to bed early to save on energy costs.
The financial strain also extends to social activities, with 81% reducing car use and 87% seeing friends and family less often. Those renting privately are particularly affected, with 94% experiencing rental stress, paying more than 30% of their income on rent.
ACOSS Acting CEO, Edwina MacDonald, described the findings as a “national shame,” urging the government to take immediate action. ACOSS is calling for income support payments to be increased to at least $80 a day, indexed to wages, and for supplements to be introduced for people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and single parents.
The survey highlights the urgent need for government intervention to lift Australians from poverty and ensure they can afford life’s essentials.