17 Oct Survey Reveals Alarming Impact of Cost-of-Living Crisis on Australian Children

A recent survey conducted by Act for Kids, a national child protection charity, highlights the severe effects of Australia’s cost-of-living crisis on children and families.

Key Findings from the Survey:

• Health Care Accessibility: 43% of respondents reported difficulties affording health care for their families.
• Educational Needs: 30% expressed challenges in paying for their children’s basic educational requirements.
• Food Security: Nearly one-third (30%) struggled to provide adequate food for their families.
• Housing Stability: 37% faced challenges in paying their rent or mortgage.
• Internet Access: More than a quarter (27%) had trouble affording internet services.

These statistics underscore the widespread challenges Australian families face due to rising living costs.

Impact on Children and Families

Act for Kids CEO Dr. Katrina Lines emphasized the increasing demand on support services and the profound impact on children.

She noted that financial pressures make it challenging for parents to maintain a safe and stable environment, potentially leading to long-term adverse effects on children’s well-being, development, and health.

“Our staff provide food vouchers to families in need, and we have seen our spend on food vouchers increase by 12% over the last two years.

“We also purchase material goods such as furniture, household items, clothing, shoes etc and expenditure on these items for families in need has increased by 14% in the same period.

“Australians tend to think of child poverty as an issue for developing countries overseas, but it’s happening right here on our doorstep and it’s impacting on the safety, health and wellbeing of children and young people.”

Dr Lines said when families are worried about keeping a roof over their head or affording groceries, the pressure on parents is enormous, making it more difficult to create a safe and stable environment for children.

Call to Action: Addressing Child Poverty

In light of Anti-Poverty Week (October 13 to 19), which focuses on child poverty this year, Act for Kids urges Australians to:

• Increase Awareness: Recognize and understand the prevalence of child poverty in Australia.
• Take Action: Participate in campaigns aimed at ending child poverty, including signing pledges and petitions.

Addressing these issues requires collective effort to ensure all children have access to essential resources and a supportive environment.