Food security means you and your family can access safe and healthy food every day. It’s about knowing that meals and snacks are available to keep everyone nourished, energised and ready to thrive.
Why food security matters
When families have access to healthy food, their children can grow well, concentrate at school and stay active. Adults feel stronger, more focused and able to support their loved ones. This creates a positive and healthy environment at home.
Daily challenges to accessing healthy food
Families may face challenges, such as:
- Rising food costs and financial pressures.
- Transport or distance to shops.
- Cultural or language differences when finding familiar foods.
- Limited time, knowledge or confidence about healthy cooking and budgeting.
Help and support for families
- Our Low Cost and Free Food Directory: Find more than 140 services that provide free meals, food pantries, vouchers, wellbeing and financial support in the region. You can also subscribe to the directory for regular updates.
- Ask Izzy: Connect with nearby services to find meals, housing, healthcare and more.
- Garden Directory - Community Gardens Australia: Find fresh produce from gardens near you.
How to make your food budget stretch further
- Plan meals and snacks using the food in your fridge or pantry at home to reduce waste and save time and money.
- Make a shopping list and stick to it. No impulse buys!
- Cook at home or in large batches instead of buying takeaway meals.
- Buy seasonal, frozen or canned fruit and vegetables.
- Grow herbs or vegetables at home for fresh and low-cost options.
Other useful links
- Pocket Seasonal Food Guide: Find which foods are in season.
- Love Food Hate Waste: Plan your meals with some cost-saving tips.
- Free Menu Planner: Use the weekly planner to help you plan your grocery shop.
- No Money No time: Make simple and cheap recipes starting from 25c per serving.