Survey reveals Lucky Country not so lucky for 2.5m people

IT IS now estimated a staggering 2.5 million Australians live below the poverty line.

Up to 1.5 million Australians have been forced into poverty. Picture: File

IT IS now estimated a staggering 2.5 million Australians live below the poverty line. This includes more than 600,000 children.

"Our biggest question for the Australian community is 'How can we expect people to continue to live like this?' We are deeply alarmed at the results of this survey," said Salvation Army Major Bruce Harmer.

"This report shows very high levels of deprivation.

"This survey has captured data for 2864 children - 60% were affected by severe deprivations - missing at least five essential items for children. The report clearly shows just how marginalised many Australians who come to The Salvation Army are."

"The Salvation Army is concerned that issues around poverty and deprivation are often reduced to questions of a job or welfare crisis," Major Harmer said.

"The foundations of a virtuous and worthy society are social inclusiveness, adequate support for those who are disadvantaged, personal safety and the ability for all members to engage fully in society.

"Respondents in the ESIS 2015 survey indicated that their situations have not changed significantly.

"They felt isolated and excluded from the mainstream community.

"However, they reflected a desire to have the opportunities and experiences the rest of the community had, such as employment opportunities, adequate housing and the ability to provide for their families."

Many experienced significant barriers to achieving these basic outcomes and breaking the cycle of poverty. For those seeking employment, many faced challenges entering the workforce and sustaining long-term employment.

The majority of respondents said a lack of relevant skills and experience, current physical and/or mental health issues, and parenting or caring responsibilities were barriers preventing them seeking employment," said Major Harmer.

"Entrenched poverty and persistent disadvantage are complex social issues.

"Without sufficient financial investment from governments and the community to adequately fund support services, the situation for disadvantaged individuals is likely to remain unchanged or further deteriorate.

"These findings compel The Salvation Army to continue to advocate for these individuals, and work to alleviate the burden of social and economic disadvantage at every level."

The major study has been released in the run-up to this weekend's Red Shield Appeal.

This year's national fundraising goal for the doorknock is $9.5 million. Statistics show that in a typical week the Salvos provide 100,000 meals for hungry people, 2000 beds for homeless people, distribute up to 8000 food vouchers, provide refuge to 500 victims of abuse and much more.

People wanting to volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal Doorknock can call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or register at salvos.org.au/volunteer.

People may also wish to donate to the Red Shield Appeal by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58), online at salvos.org.au, in person at any Westpac branch or by posting a cheque to Reply Paid 87088 Silverwater NSW 2128.

What the report found

 87% of adults and 60% of children reported severe deprivation - and went without five or more essential items in life;

 Due to massive financial hardship, 75% of respondents had cut down on basic necessities, 57% had gone without meals and 59% were unable to pay utility bills or had delayed them;

 78% in private rental housing experienced extreme housing stress;

 Of the 2864 children represented in the survey, 65% of parents were not able to afford out-of-school activities;

 62% of parents could not afford internet and 34% could not afford to give children fresh fruit or vegetables daily.

Originally published as Survey reveals Lucky Country not so lucky for 2.5m people