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A wide-ranging survey of households throughout the Illawarra and Shoalhaven has revealed that more than a third have experienced food insecurity over the past year, underscoring the devastating impact of the cost-of-living crisis on many families’ ability to access adequate food.
Dr. Katherine Kent and Professor Karen Charlton, nutrition and dietetics experts from the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems Research Group, have spent six months analyzing the region’s food landscape. Their research provides a comprehensive overview of access to healthy food, dietary habits, urban farming, and the impact of rising grocery costs.
The Let’s Talk About Food Survey, the largest of its kind in the region, was conducted in collaboration with Food Fairness Illawarra and Healthy Cities Illawarra. Nearly 10,000 households across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and Shoalhaven were invited to participate, with over 700 responses highlighting the challenges of obtaining nutritious and affordable food.
Key Findings of the Survey
The survey found that:
- More than one-third of households in Illawarra and Shoalhaven experience food insecurity, with grocery price hikes cited as a primary factor.
- 12% of households face severe food insecurity, leading to skipped meals and hunger, while 27% are marginally or moderately food insecure.
- Vulnerable groups, including young adults (61%), people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds (56%), single parents (63%), and those earning less than $500 per week (59%), are disproportionately affected.
- 30% of households with children struggle to afford a balanced diet.
Dr. Kent emphasized that many parents go without food to ensure their children are fed, but severe food insecurity inevitably affects children’s well-being.
“Parents often shield their children from the worst impacts by skipping meals or making other sacrifices. However, in a modern society, where food waste is also a huge issue, this is truly not good enough,” Dr. Kent said.
Regional Disparities in Food Access
Professor Charlton highlighted how access to affordable, healthy food influences dietary habits and long-term health outcomes. The survey revealed disparities between regions:
- 70% of Wollongong and 65% of Shellharbour residents felt they had enough access to healthy food options, compared to only 53% in Shoalhaven and 50% in Kiama.
- Shoalhaven and Kiama respondents expressed more concerns about food costs.
- Only 14% of respondents believed there were sufficient food assistance programs available.
- Access to community gardens and farmers markets was a common concern, with just 16% of households believing there were enough spaces for residents to grow their own food.
Call for Action
The researchers advocate for a Regional Food Strategy to improve food access, support local production, and integrate food security into broader development plans. Dr. Kent emphasized the need for expanding farmers markets and food hubs to increase availability of fresh, locally grown produce.
“There is a strong demand for expanding farmers markets and food hubs to increase access to fresh, locally grown produce, as well as strengthening food affordability initiatives and community food programs,” Dr. Kent said.
The studies are published by the University of Wollongong and provide valuable insights into the region’s food security challenges.
Disclaimer
This article is based on research conducted by the University of Wollongong. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to refer to the original studies for a comprehensive understanding of the findings.
