Allianz Partners and Foodbank

provide essential support to uni students

14 05 2026 Reach Out Community Staff Holding Avocados Everton Park Tiyla

Allianz Partners and Foodbank have partnered once again to deliver a series of free food markets for university students experiencing food insecurity. Earlier this month, the first Queensland market of 2026 was held at Griffith University’s Nathan campus, as part of a national series of 12 markets being delivered across Australia.

Foodbank and Allianz Partners welcomed a steady stream of students throughout the day. Thanks to Foodbank Queensland’s generous food donors and food purchasing program, students could access a range of fresh produce and pantry staples at no cost.

Pallets and tables were well stocked with fresh fruit and vegetables including bananas, apples, capsicum and mandarins, alongside pantry staples such as baked beans, noodles, milk and peanut butter. Students also received recipe cards, to help them make the most of their ingredients and turn them into nutritious meals.

14 05 2026 Reach Out Community Pantry Everton Park 2

14 05 2026 Reach Out Community Pantry Everton Park 4

The markets provide an important source of support for international students, many of whom are facing increasing cost of living pressures while studying away from home. Throughout the day, over 500 students attended the market, highlighting the growing demand for food relief and the increasing cost of living pressures facing international students.

Jasmine, Product & Innovation Lead at Allianz Partners, said many international students face financial pressures that are often overlooked.

“The demand for food relief is ever-growing. Noting that international students are away from home, they haven’t got the traditional supports mechanisms in place. That’s why it’s so important to have this partnership with Foodbank,” says Jasmine.

“There’s a misconception that a lot of international students are wealthy because they can afford to come and study in Australia. However, when you look at the cost of tuition, visa fees and everyday living expenses, many students are doing it tough.”

For many students, rising living costs have become a significant challenge. One Griffith University student said rising living costs have made it increasingly difficult to balance study and work commitments.

“Being a student, income is limited. The scholarship stipend isn’t sufficient to cover meals, utilities and rent. House rental is very difficult.”

Another student described the unique financial pressures facing international students, particularly the challenges of finding work while balancing their studies.

“My sister came to Australia five years ago as an international student, and she says it wasn’t this expensive. Now it’s difficult to afford living costs with just one job. We’re only allowed to work 24 hours a week, and it took me four months to get a job.”

These experiences reflect broader sector trends. Allianz Partners’ 2026 State of Student Healthcare Report found that cost of living is one of the leading causes of stress for international students, with 61% identifying it as a key stressor.

Students spoke positively about the difference the market made to the weekly budget, highlighting how access to free groceries helped stretch limited finances and free up money for other essentials. “Definitely. It reduces a lot of pressure. On a weekly basis I can save $10 to $20, and that helps so much. Instead of spending that money on groceries, I can put it towards other essentials.”

Beyond providing food relief to students, the markets also help students feel more connected and supported during their time in Australia. Jasmine said the feedback from students that attend these events has been positive.

“They said they have loved the program. It brings a sense of humanity to their student experience; it was really nice to receive that feedback.”

As the national series continues, Foodbank and Allianz Partners remain committed to supporting students facing food insecurity. Through free food markets, students can access nutritious food and everyday essentials, helping to ease cost of living pressures and support their wellbeing and academic success.