Deprivation in Victoria has reached an alarming level with more than one in seven people seeking help from welfare groups missing at least one substantial meal a day, according to the latest research from Mission Australia.
The research also revealed at least 42 per cent of welfare clients in Victoria can’t afford dental treatment, 33 per cent don’t have money for prescribed medicines, 26 per cent can’t afford to pay their utility bills and 14 per cent have no access to a bulk-billing doctor.
And of those clients with young families, 25 per cent are unable to provide a hobby or leisure activity for their children, 21 per cent can’t afford school activities and 12 per cent are unable to provide separate beds for each child.
Mission Australia Victoria State Director Paul Bird said the figures gave a disturbing portrait of inequality and highlighted the social exclusion faced by those relying on community service agencies for support.
“These figures illustrate there is a long way to go before we have a ‘fair Australia,’” said Mr Bird.
“At a time when Australia is patting itself on the back for avoiding the worst of the financial crisis, our research is a wake-up call that poverty is still very real in this country,” he said.
Mr Bird hoped the figures would encourage further debate about growing inequality and embedded disadvantaged in Victoria and the actions needed to address the issue.
“With the State Election fast approaching, it’s imperative the Victorian Government pursues an agenda that alleviates poverty and disadvantage and makes a real difference for those currently excluded from life’s essentials,” said Mr Bird.
The findings are based on a survey of 1230 clients of Mission Australia and other community service organisations nationally.
Media contact
Rachael Nightingale
Fenton Communications
P: (03) 9600 0006
M: 0449881980
E: rachael@fenton.com.au
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