A recent report from Foodbank Australia reveals that nearly one million households in Australia are grappling with food insecurity, prompting many parents to skip meals to ensure their children are fed.

The report highlights that low-income households are the most severely affected by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Stubborn inflation and rising housing costs continue to challenge families, a situation worsened by increased migration following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Over 870,000 households earning less than A$30,000 annually are experiencing severe food insecurity, marking a 5% increase from the previous year.

Households facing food insecurity live with daily anxiety about their next meal, often forced to choose between food, housing, and utilities.

There is a growing reliance on food relief charities, as more families seek assistance amid declining support from friends and family.

More than half of low-income households are seeking help more frequently than last year, with support from family and friends decreasing significantly.

Single-parent families are particularly hard hit, with over two-thirds reporting food shortages.

Brianna Casey, CEO of Foodbank Australia, noted that low-income families are reaching their limits, compromising on food quality and nutrition.

Severely food-insecure households are increasingly relying on credit cards and buy now, pay later schemes to manage their expenses.

Many Australians are cutting back on essential items, including dairy products and fresh produce, as they struggle to make ends meet.

More than half of food-insecure households are skipping meals or going entire days without food, highlighting the severity of the crisis.