OzHarvest, Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, has released its latest Community Needs Survey results, revealing the need for food relief continues at an all-time high and charities are struggling to cope with the ongoing demand. Conducted annually with OzHarvest’s network of 1,500 charities, the results show the struggle to put food on the table is real for too many Australians. 

The survey shows that housing affordability and grocery prices are the clear drivers of food insecurity, with families and the homeless among the largest groups seeking support. Many charities reported seeing more people forced to live in their cars, tents, or motels due to the cost of living. 

• 75% of charities reported an increase in demand for food  

• 30% of people are seeking help for the first time 

• 67% of charities cannot meet current demand (a 20% increase in the last year) 

• The vast majority could take up to 50% more food to meet demand 

• Charities are doing their best, feeding 57% more people each month (an average of 352 people a month) 

• At least 30,000 people are going without food each month, and many more do not ask for help. 

OzHarvest Founder, Ronni Kahn AO said this is the toughest it’s ever been. “These results are shocking, but not surprising. We’re delivering over half a million meals across the country every week, but it’s just not enough.  Our charities tell us that people are desperate, often lining up for over two hours to receive fresh fruit and vegetables. They say they’re doing their best to feed everyone but are often faced with turning people away as they just don’t have the food. The vast majority could take up to double to meet demand.” 

“Families are barely surviving and it’s heartbreaking to think that it’s easier for parents to keep kids home from school when they can’t afford food for lunchboxes. One client said  ‘we have two incomes and still can’t afford to put food on the table—what is going on with this world?’” 

OzHarvest is currently supporting 1,500 charities and has 848 on its waitlist to receive food. The statistics emphasise the urgent need for increased support and resources to tackle food insecurity.  “‘Despite this overwhelming demand we didn’t see any extra funding for food relief in the Federal budget last week,” said Ronni. 

OzHarvest’s Giving Day Appeal is live from today until 30th June, every donation to OzHarvest will be matched by a generous supporter, meaning every dollar donated will provide four meals to someone in need.  

Download the Community Needs Survey Infographic, 

Press Kit includes: Video Footage and Images 

Watch the appeal video here.