A Growing Problem
Annice Wallington, a resident of Cranebrook, has become adept at stretching her $300 weekly budget to feed her family. She shops at two supermarkets, comparing prices and prioritizing frozen vegetables over fresh, and meat bought in-store over online. She even skips breakfast to make two meals last longer.
This meticulous planning is a response to the rising cost of living, which has made food affordability a struggle for many Australians. Foodbank estimates that over a third of Australians struggled to afford food in 2023, with NSW being one of the least food-secure states.
Research suggests that parts of NSW, particularly Greater Western Sydney, could be considered "food deserts," meaning access to healthy food is limited or more than 1.6km away. This lack of access, coupled with higher food prices, has led to increased food insecurity in the region.
Greater Western Sydney has long faced higher rates of diabetes and obesity, and food insecurity is likely contributing to these issues. Residents like Ms. Wallington, who is diabetic, struggle to manage their health due to limited access to affordable, nutritious food.
The demand for food support has surged in recent years, with charities like Mama Lana and Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services reporting a significant increase in requests. This demand is attributed to the rising cost of living, existing challenges with access to affordable food, and the long distances many residents need to travel to reach supermarkets.
The consequences of increasing food insecurity could exacerbate Greater Western Sydney's existing health problems. Experts warn that limited access to healthy food could lead to higher rates of diabetes and other health issues, impacting both physical and mental well-being.
While food banks and other support services are providing some relief, concerns remain about the long-term impact of food insecurity on the region's health and well-being. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing access to affordable, healthy food, improving public transportation, and providing additional support to vulnerable populations.