Food insecurity in Australia has reached a critical point, with almost half of low-income households facing food insecurity in 2024. This annual report explores the current hunger situation in Australia, finding that although outcomes have improved for high and middle-income earners low-income households are worse off than ever. 

Cost of living continues to be the main contributor to food insecurity, with 82% of food insecure households citing high or increased living expenses as a factor. The report also found that Australians' relationship to food relief is changing, with more people than ever accessing food relief services and fewer receiving support from family and friends. 

Findings

• Almost half of low-income households have faced food insecurity in 2024, the worst the situation has been since the cost-of-living crisis began.
• 3.4 million Australian households are experiencing food insecurity, including 2 million who are experiencing "severe" food insecurity.
• Those in regional areas and single parent households are also disproportionately affected (69% experiencing food insecurity, 41% severe). 
• 79 per cent of the households that experienced severe food insecurity actually ran out of food and did not have enough money to purchase more.
• More than half of food-insecure households in Australia are enduring the most severe level of hardship, skipping meals, reducing portion sizes or going entire days without eating.
• The amount of Australians aware of and taking advantage of food support, including School Breakfast Programs, has increased, but social stigma still prevents many people from accessing the support that they need.