Our new Impact Framework:

Building a community-led, data-driven response to food insecurity

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we’re proud to work alongside more than 700 Community Partners and over 900 schools to ensure people facing hunger can access the food they need.

Our purpose is simple: to source food and make it accessible to those who are going without across NSW and the ACT.

As demand for food relief continues to grow significantly, our ability to provide access to food and grocery items across NSW and the ACT has never been more important. It’s crucial that we can develop a framework that enables us to understand the needs of our communities, underpinned by strong data and insights which will enable us to get food where it’s needed most.

Thanks to Paul Ramsay Foundation, we recently embarked on a project to develop an impact measurement framework to support this work.

Developed in conjunction with Seer Data and Social Outcomes, this project will equip Foodbank NSW & ACT with the tools, evidence, and shared understanding needed to better identify what’s working, where needs are changing, and how we can continue to improve our services across the state and territory.

At the heart of this work is the development of a practical Impact Framework, which will help us:

  • Define what drives change across Foodbank NSW & ACT and the communities we serve. 
  • Measure what matters by connecting our internal data systems, alongside new, community-informed sources of outcomes data. 
  • Improve our programs through clearer insights into what’s working and where support is most needed. 
  • Strengthen our storytelling by combining data with real community narratives that build trust and attract investment.

By working closely with community partners, partner schools and our team, this project will lay the foundations for a more coordinated, evidence based food relief system. We recently kicked off this exciting project by inviting representatives from our Community Partners and Schools to a workshop, including Bonnyrigg High School. Toongabbie East Public School, Lifehouse Care, Survivors R Us, Carevan Blacktown and Hawkesbury Helping Hands.

Facilitated by Social Outcomes, the workshop focused on developing:

  • A shared language for impact 
  • A clear Theory of Change 
  • The outcomes that matter most 
  • Meaningful ways to embed community voice 
  • The data and stories we need to keep learning and improving over time

“This work marks an important step forward for Foodbank NSW & ACT,”

“With support from the Paul Ramsay Foundation, we are strengthening our ability to track and measure the impact of rising food insecurity today and responding with community focused solutions that are informed by strong data

“Our workshop with Social Outcomes provided our team and community partners with the opportunity to develop our Theory of Change which will underpin everything we do. Thank you to Paul Ramsay Foundation for enabling Foodbank to conduct this important work.”

Jennifer Birks

Chief Marketing, Fundraising and Development Officer of Foodbank NSW & ACT

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More middle-income earners are struggling to put food on the table than ever before – as Foodbank NSW & ACT shines a light on the cost-of-living crisis ahead of World Hunger Day 

Media Release    

The cost-of-living crisis is impacting Australians now more than ever, with fuel prices on the rise and interest rates continuing to increase, people are being forced to make impossible choices between paying for essentials like fuel and rent or putting food on the table.   

As the largest and most trusted food relief charity in the state and territory, Foodbank NSW & ACT knows hunger stretches far and wide, and impacts people from all walks of life.  

The organisation has already seen a sharp increase in the proportion of middle-income households in NSW and the ACT who have experienced food insecurity, now 40%, compared to 32% only three years ago – and demand for their services continues to grow. 

As the official charity partner for Vivid Sydney 2026, Foodbank NSW & ACT is shining a light on the scale of this crisis and calling for support to help the organisation go where hunger is ahead of World Hunger Day tomorrow (Thursday 28 May 2026).  

Recent data from the Foodbank Hunger Report shows one in three households, equal to 1.1 million across NSW and the ACT, are struggling to put food on the table. Sadly, of those, 682,000 households experience the most severe form of food insecurity, regularly skipping meals and sometimes going entire days without eating.   

Even households earning $91,000 or more aren’t immune, with almost one in five in NSW and the ACT knowing all too well what it’s like to worry about being able to put food on the table. Half of renters and 28% of mortgage holders in the state and territory have struggled to feed their families, and there has been a significant increase in households citing “changes in my household/living arrangements” as a reason for their food insecurity.   

That’s why Foodbank NSW & ACT has partnered with Vivid Sydney in 2026 – to put the scale of this crisis in the spotlight and break down the stigma around food insecurity.  

The organisation has installed one of their iconic purple Foodbank trucks at the light festival, bringing their work to life in the form of an immersive truck-packing game experience.  

“We’re proud and excited to be the official Charity Partner of Vivid Sydney 2026, giving Foodbank NSW & ACT the opportunity to shine a light on hunger at Australia’s largest event,

“Right now, one in three households across NSW and the ACT are experiencing some form of food insecurity – a statistic that many Australians are all too familiar with, including those visiting Vivid Sydney this year.  

“That’s why Foodbank NSW & ACT is here at Vivid Sydney 2026 – to put the scale of this crisis in the spotlight and invite thousands of people to be part of the solution at this free and inclusive event.  

“Our immersive truck-packing game shows just how much food relief is needed and how quickly it needs to get there, every single day. And while the game might end, our work to get food out to those who need it doesn’t stop,

“We urge everyone attending this year’s event to stand with us, so that together, we can go where hunger is.” 

John Robertson

CEO, Foodbank NSW & ACT


John Robertson, CEO of Foodbank NSW & ACT, said the activation emphasises the real scale of the food insecurity crisis across NSW and the ACT, and invites those visiting to be part of the solution.  

Foodbank NSW & ACT works tirelessly to get food out to those who need it every day. Each year, their fleet travels more than 250,000km to deliver vital food relief to communities across the state and territory. Vivid Sydney Festival Director, Brett Sheehy AO, said he was “delighted” to be partnering with Foodbank NSW & ACT as the event’s Charity Partner in 2026.

“While Vivid Sydney is best known for bringing people together through creativity and shared experiences, it’s equally important that we use our platform to support the community,”

“We’re proud to work alongside Foodbank NSW & ACT and use the scale of the festival to foster equity and inclusion, support this vital work, and help ensure no one in our community is left behind.” 

Brett Sheehy AO

Director, Vivid Sydney Festival

Every dollar donated through the Vivid Sydney ticketing platform helps keep Foodbank NSW & ACT’s trucks on the road and allows them to provide two meals to someone in need. Donate today at foodbank.org.au.  

As the cost-of-living crisis hits Australians harder than ever, Foodbank NSW & ACT is calling on the support of those who can help. 

To support Foodbank NSW & ACT, visit the Donate Now page below.  

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit the Find Food Assistance page below and look for the ‘Find Food’ button. 

Dan Elsom

  

Communications Manager

For all state media enquiries

M: 0439 425 176 

E: daniel.elsom@foodbanknsw.org.au

Learn more

Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Donate Now

Every dollar provides two meals.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Find Food Assistance 

If you or someone you know needs help.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

Find out more

Celebrating our Foodbank NSW & ACT volunteers this
National Volunteer Week 

Foodbank NSW & ACT is powered by incredible volunteers who make our work possible. From sorting donated food to packing hampers, our volunteers are the heart and soul of our organisation.  

In an average week, we welcome 120 amazing community volunteers to our warehouse. With their help, we distribute approximately 430,000 meals per week to individuals and families in need. 

This National Volunteer Week, we are celebrating some of the incredible people who give countless hours to support our mission.   


People just like Sue and Jodie, a mother‑daughter duo making a real impact. 

Sue has been volunteering with us since December 2019, while Jodie just bypassed her 100 hours milestone. Together, they have contributed 2,300 hours to Foodbank NSW & ACT. 

We love seeing families volunteering  side‑by‑side, helping us distribute thousands of kilos of food to households who are going without right across NSW and the ACT.   

Sue’s advice to anyone thinking about volunteering: 

“Just do it! Seven years in and I’m still loving every moment. I volunteer because I want my time to mean something.” 

“Mum and I volunteer together, I help with the heavy lifting,” 

“It’s become our thing; time with Mum that means something. Go for it” 

Jodie 

Volunteer, Foodbank NSW & ACT

At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we are lucky to have volunteers who have stood by us for years. Maree is just one of the volunteers who has been with us for over five years, volunteering more than 850 hours.

Her commitment really does make a difference to the one in three households struggling right now, helping us get essential food and groceries to people doing it tough every day.  

Volunteering isn’t new to Maree - she has spent more than 30 years as a volunteer and advocate. In 2020, she received the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for services to global poverty eradication.   

“What keeps me coming back?”  

“I really believe in Foodbank’s philosophy of helping people in need. I also believe in minimising food waste, and I see that all the time here. 

“I love interacting with the agencies that come in and learning a bit about what they do.  

“But I also have made some very good friends here and we enjoy our chats at morning tea.” 

Maree

Volunteer, Foodbank NSW & ACT

Maddox, one of our youngest volunteers, has already contributed over 250 hours of his time. He is also our 2026 Junior Volunteer of the Year. He first came along with his mum, Sharon, joining her corporate team for a Christmas hamper‑packing day.  

He is now a regular community volunteer, coming in three times a week to help those in need across the state and territory.

He’s always looking for something to do and is a real team player, often jumping at the chance to train new volunteers. Maddox often volunteers for extra shifts or stays late,  showing flexibility and genuine care for our community.  

“I enjoy getting to meet new people and getting to know what they do other than volunteer at Foodbank, and hopefully it will give me a chance to get another job,” 

“The reason I keep coming back is that it helped me build confidence.  

“It’s a great chance to meet people and get more experience for the future. It’s also great to help the community.” 

Maddox

Volunteer, Foodbank NSW & ACT

To all our volunteers, thank you for being our superheroes and joining us on our mission to end hunger in our communities.  

You inspire us every single day.  

Happy National Volunteer Week!  

Interested in volunteering with us?  
Volunteer today

John Robertson steps down as CEO of sector-leading food relief organisation, Foodbank NSW & ACT 

Media Release    

After almost nine years at the state and territory’s largest and most trusted food relief organisation, John Roberston will be stepping down from his role as Chief Executive Officer. 

Having volunteered for seven years prior to joining the team as Executive General Manager in 2017, then serving as Chief Operating Officer and eventually commencing as CEO in 2020, Mr Robertson’s contribution to Foodbank NSW & ACT has been nothing short of exceptional.  

Under his leadership, Foodbank NSW & ACT has grown substantially in reach, impact, and operational capability, measured not just in tonnes of food distributed, but in lives changed and community trust earned. 

His tenure has seen significant growth in food relief volumes and agency partnerships, an increased investment in infrastructure and logistics, the strengthening of donor, partnership and government relationships, and a measured increase in the awareness of food insecurity at a policy level.  

And most importantly, an unfaltering commitment to making a difference to those struggling to put food on the table across NSW and the ACT.  

Formally concluding his position at the end of June, Mr Robertson will pass the torch to current Chief Operating Officer and incoming Chief Executive Officer, Samantha Prescott. 

Mr Robertson described his time at Foodbank NSW & ACT as “one of the greatest privileges of his career”. 

“It has been incredibly satisfying to have had the opportunity to lead Foodbank NSW & ACT – an organisation at which I started as a volunteer back in 2011,” 

“I have worked with amazingly passionate staff and volunteers, and I am so proud of what we as a team have achieved.  

“Over my time with Foodbank, I have met people who are dealing with the realities of food insecurity amid the growing cost-of-living crisis. Many of those have shared deeply personal stories of the impact it has had on them and their families.  

“These are the people who both inspired and drove me to do more during my time with Foodbank. 

“I know Samantha shares that same empathy and drive to make life better for those doing it tough in our communities, and that’s why I’m confident she will continue to lead Foodbank NSW & ACT forward to support those facing hunger across the state and territory.” 

John Robertson

CEO, Foodbank NSW & ACT

Having been involved in some of the organisation’s most significant operational milestones, Mrs Prescott has stood at the heart of Foodbank NSW & ACT’s operational engine for several years, driving efficiency, leading frontline teams, and building the systems that underpin their ability to respond at scale.  

Due to officially commence on July 6, Mrs Prescott said she was “honoured and humbled” to step into the role.  

“John has built something truly special here, and I am committed to building on that foundation alongside the rest of the Foodbank NSW & ACT team,”   

“Our mission, to provide essential food and grocery items to people who need it, is more important than ever, and I look forward to leading this work together.” 

Samantha Prescott

COO, Foodbank NSW & ACT

While the organisation’s leadership may be in transition, its work to get food out to those who need it remains constant and unwavering.  

Further details on incoming CEO Samantha Prescott will be shared in due course.  

As the cost-of-living crisis hits Australians harder than ever, Foodbank NSW & ACT is calling on the support of those who can help. 

To support Foodbank NSW & ACT, visit the Donate Now page below.  

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit the Find Food Assistance page below and look for the ‘Find Food’ button. 

Dan Elsom

  

Communications Manager

For all state media enquiries

M: 0439 425 176 

E: daniel.elsom@foodbanknsw.org.au

Learn more

Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Donate Now

Every dollar provides two meals.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Find Food Assistance 

If you or someone you know needs help.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

Find out more

Foodbank NSW & ACT announced as Vivid Sydney’s Charity Partner

Media Release    

Foodbank NSW & ACT has been confirmed as the official Charity Partner for Vivid Sydney 2026

From 22 May to 13 June, Sydney will come alive with light, music, food and performance, celebrating NSW’s cultural vibrancy and creative talent through collaborations with boundary‑pushing artists, musicians, thinkers and culinary experts.

Alongside its world-class festival program, Vivid Sydney continues to play an important role in supporting community connection and social impact, using its platform to give back and support organisations that focus on delivering vital outcomes for communities across NSW. 

“We’re proud and excited to be the official Charity Partner of Vivid Sydney 2026, giving us the opportunity to shine a light on hunger at Australia’s largest event.

“Right now, one in three households across NSW and the ACT are experiencing some form of food insecurity – and that means far too many people visiting Vivid Sydney know firsthand what it’s like to worry about being able to put food on the table.

“That’s why this partnership is so important to Foodbank NSW & ACT. Our immersive truck-packing game puts the scale of this crisis in the spotlight and invites thousands of people to be part of the solution. And while the game might end, our work to get food out to those who need it doesn’t stop. We urge everyone attending this year’s event to stand with us, so that together, we can go where hunger is.”

John Robertson

Chief Executive Officer


As part of Vivid Sydney, Foodbank NSW & ACT will feature across the festival, with a fun and interactive light installation in Tumbalong Park and a panel discussion at the Food for Thought stage at Vivid Fire Kitchen on 2 June – helping to shine a light on the scale and reality of food insecurity and reinforcing Vivid Sydney’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Foodbank NSW & ACT is the state and territory’s largest food relief organisation, providing much-needed food assistance to individuals and families through their network of more than 700 community partners and over 900 schools across NSW and the ACT. Foodbank directly supports households facing food stress at a time when demand is at historic highs. The partnership aligns with the festival’s principles of equity, inclusion and social cohesion.

Vivid Sydney 2026 will once again draw millions of domestic and international visitors, powering NSW’s visitor and night-time economies and cementing Sydney’s status as a global leader in immersive cultural experiences.

Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

“The countdown is well and truly on until one of the world’s largest arts festivals lights up the city, showcasing our creative brilliance and Sydney’s cultural confidence to the world. But beyond the spectacle, Vivid Sydney also uses its platform to make a positive difference for communities across NSW.

“As a Government, we know cost-of-living pressures are driving more Australians to seek help putting food on the table, which is why having Foodbank NSW & ACT as the Charity Partner for Vivid Sydney 2026 is so important. The partnership reflects Vivid Sydney’s broader role in engaging local communities, fostering equity and inclusion, and supporting organisations that drive meaningful social outcomes.”

Steve Kamper

Minister for Jobs and Tourism

“Vivid Sydney is such an important time of the year, bringing communities together through creativity and shared experiences, and I can’t wait for festival-goers to see what we have in store with just one month to go.

“More importantly, each year Vivid Sydney is driven by a clear purpose – to work with incredible organisations like Foodbank NSW & ACT to enhance accessibility and support the vital work being done across the state. As a festival, we are committed to using our platform to give back to the community and help shape a more sustainable future for Sydney.”

Brett Sheehy AO

Vivid Sydney Festival Director

We’re bringing one of our iconic purple Foodbank trucks to Vivid Sydney 2026 to bring our work to life in the form of an immersive truck-packing game experience.

Visitors are invited to pack food and grocery items into a digital Foodbank truck, racing against the clock, just as we do every day. The experience is fun and playful, but it carries a clear message: it takes a huge, coordinated effort to go where hunger is, and real impact only happens at scale.

This activation shows how much food relief is needed across the state and territory, how quickly it needs to get there, and what it means to support communities not just once, but every day. What people pack in the game reflects what Foodbank NSW & ACT delivers in real life. 

For more information, visit https://www.vividsydney.com/sponsors/foodbank-nsw-act.

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Vivid Sydney Charity Partner

Step into our truck packing experience

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If you or someone you know needs help.

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Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

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Foodbank NSW & ACT partners with BARC to reduce anxiety for rescue dogs using simple household ingredients

Media Release    

Pets make up such a huge part of our lives, and for many, their welfare is just as important as any other family member.  

So, what if there was a simple way to help calm your furry friend when they become anxious or bored? 

Ahead of National Pet Day, Foodbank NSW & ACT has partnered with Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) to reduce stress and bring enrichment to the lives of hundreds of animals in their care – and it could work for your pet too.  

As the largest and most trusted food relief organisation in the state and territory, Foodbank NSW & ACT works with a network of over 700 Community Partners to deliver vital food relief to individuals and families facing hardship across NSW and the ACT.  

And that work also includes supporting the animals within those communities, as the organisation regularly supplies pet food, toys and accessories to support households of all shapes and sizes.  

Most recently, Foodbank NSW & ACT linked up with BARC by providing boxes of surplus donated dried herbs, which are used by the Centre to help stimulate rescue dogs and enrich their senses.  

BARC uses the herbs inside sniff “enrichment stations” to help calm dogs prior to their daily walks, which is often the most stressful part of their day.   

Kate Bojarojc, Animal Attendant at BARC, said simple scent enrichment techniques were helping reduce stress and improve behaviour in the dogs in their care. 

“Animal wellbeing is such a holistic topic and enrichment is one of the key aspects of animal lives, especially domesticated pets,” 

“Herbs create great scent enrichment, and the sniffing behaviours can reduce stress, and activities like jumping and barking. They make the animals calmer and everyone a little bit happier. 

“Thank you, Foodbank, for these donations. I know our pups really appreciate the opportunity to make their lives that little bit more interesting.” 

Kate Bojarojc

Animal Attendant at BARC

As a community-focused organisation, Foodbank knows the significant role pets play in supporting households in need.  

The 2025 Pet Hunger Report found 56% of food insecure households across Australia had a pet, with more than half of those citing the importance of their four-legged friend in providing companionship, as well as mental and emotional support.  

Samantha Prescott, Chief Operating Officer of Foodbank NSW & ACT, said the organisation is committed to supporting the communities they serve in any way they can.  

“At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we’re dedicated to supporting those facing hardship – and that extends to the pets in our network too,” Mrs Prescott said.  

“While they may seem small, we know the herb donations make a big difference for those animals in BARC’s care, and we’re proud to help support their enrichment while they wait to be adopted.  

“We know how important animals are to the people we serve, with many choosing to feed their pets before they feed themselves.  

“So, if we can play a small role in contributing to the overall wellbeing of animals at BARC, we’re hopeful they can go on to enrich the lives of individuals and families doing it tough across the state and territory.” 

Samantha Prescott

Chief Operating Officer

“Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre is an important community facility, providing high-quality care for animals across Blacktown City and greater Sydney. 

“This partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT is a practical example of how organisations can work together to support that care and improve outcomes for animals while they wait to be rehomed. 

“We know pets play an important role in people’s lives, especially for those doing it tough, and that’s something we take seriously as a Council.” 

Brad Bunting

Major of Blacktown City

As the cost-of-living crisis hits Australians harder than ever, Foodbank NSW & ACT is calling on the support of those who can help. 

To support Foodbank NSW & ACT, visit the Donate Now page below.  

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit the Find Food Assistance page below and look for the ‘Find Food’ button. 

Dan Elsom

  

Communications Manager

For all state media enquiries

M: 0439 425 176 

E: daniel.elsom@foodbanknsw.org.au

Take action today

Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Donate Now

Every dollar provides two meals.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Find Food Assistance 

If you or someone you know needs help.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

Find out more

Over 2,800km and 30 hours on NSW roads
Our journey with Brad Fittler & the 2026 NRL HOGS Tour


Foodbank NSW & ACT were lucky enough to join Brad Fittler and his team on the NRL HOGS National Tour for the first time in 2026.  

In just one month, our team spent over 30 hours on the road and travelled more than 2,800km across NSW, providing free fresh fruit and water to families and young rugby league players. 

Visiting Werrington, Gunnedah, Wagga Wagga, Batemans Bay and Goulburn, we proudly worked alongside stars including Greg Inglis, Yasmin Meakes, Dale Finucane and Jada Taylor to celebrate the profound connection between rugby league and the community. 

Each stop gave us the chance to support local training clinics, fuel young athletes, and strengthen our connection with the regional groups we already serve. 

Samantha Prescott, Chief Operating Officer of Foodbank NSW & ACT, highlighted the importance of our team being able to engage with the people we serve.  

“We were excited to be part of the NRL HOGS National Tour supporting rural communities across NSW,” Mrs Prescott said.  

“At Foodbank NSW & ACT, we know demand for food relief services in rural areas is high, which is why we distribute more than half of our food outside metro regions into far reaching corners of the state and territory.

Joining Brad and the rest of the NRL HOGS team gave us another chance to connect with those communities and provide fresh fruit and water to support select training clinics throughout the tour.

The NRL HOGS National Tour does fantastic work providing opportunities for young rugby league players and uniting people through the spirit of the game – and we’re thrilled we could be a part of it.”

Samantha Prescott

Chief of Operations 

Having invited us on the tour, Brad Fittler showed his support for our mission to end hunger in our communities.  

“Food is the absolute key to the future – the quality of food you eat and your access to food.  

 In understanding the enormity and the reality of some kids and parents lives, I wanted to find a way to have Foodbank NSW & ACT noticed more. So being part of the HOGS Tour was a good start!” 

Brad Fittler

Australian rugby league commentator, TV presenter and former NRL player

With more than half of our food relief going to regional and remote areas, this tour offered invaluable time on the ground. These conversations and community moments help us better understand local needs so we can continue delivering essential support where it matters most. 

 

A huge thank you to the NRL, Brad Fittler and every community member who welcomed us along the way.  

Celebrating the women who strengthen our impact

Why International Women’s Day matters to Foodbank NSW & ACT.

International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the women who give so much of themselves to ensure no one in NSW & the ACT goes hungry. 

This year’s theme, Give to Gain, reflects a truth we see every day: when women are supported, included and empowered, our entire organisation becomes stronger, more resilient and more capable of serving our communities. 

Foodbank NSW & ACT continues to grow as an organisation, where women choose to build their careers. Representation of women has increased from 54.1% in 2024 to 57.2% today, reflecting our commitment to inclusion, flexibility and creating pathways for women across all roles. 

Women now make up 75% of our Executive Leadership Team, a milestone that reflects our commitment to ensuring leadership reflects the strength and talent across our organisation. 

While women form the majority of our executive leadership, we recognise that strengthening representation at all levels remains an ongoing priority. Continued progress requires long‑term commitment, intentional development and sustained investment in leadership pathways for everyone at Foodbank NSW & ACT. 

What ‘Give to Gain’ means to Foodbank NSW & ACT   

Foodbank NSW & ACT’s work is built on giving so others can gain, and we rely on collaboration across teams, partners and communities. Our Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy, Lauren Kara-George, who leads an all-female team, highlights how working in food relief has shaped her own leadership and offers advice to emerging female leaders. 


“I try to instil this mindset in the teams I lead by encouraging women to step forward, try new things, and back themselves, even if it feels a little outside of their comfort zone.

Working in food relief is deeply personal to me. I grew up in a single‑parent family on a council estate in the UK, where my mum worked three jobs and money was incredibly tight. That upbringing shapes how I lead today. I try to pass that mindset on to the women I lead by creating a culture where they feel supported, trusted and so very capable.”

Lauren Kara-George

Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy

Our International Women’s Day

To celebrate, we welcomed retired NSW Police Force Detective Superintendent, Deborah Wallace. Highlighting leadership, resilience and community impact, Deb shared inspiring stories from her remarkable career, many of which brought our staff and volunteers to tears. 

Read more here

Three quarters of struggling households in NSW & ACT experienced food insecurity for the first time last year – yet top income earners saw their wealth increase by $600,000 a day

Media Release    

Everyday Australians are struggling to make ends meet, with the cost-of-living crisis the major cause of concern for households across NSW and the ACT. 

Data from the 2025 Foodbank Hunger Report showed one in three households in NSW and the ACT experienced food insecurity in the past year. And an alarming 74 percent of those households going hungry were navigating food shortage for the first time ever.  

Yet in the same year, according to new data released by Oxfam Australia, the nation’s highest income earners saw their wealth increase by almost $600,000 a day. 

The anti-poverty charity this week published research which revealed Australia’s 48 billionaires hold more wealth than the almost 11 million lower income earners sitting on the other end of the scale combined. 

The findings highlight the disparity in our current economic climate and emphasise the need for increased support for those experiencing hardship, at a time when housing affordability is directly impacting people’s ability to put food on the table.  

Figures from the 2025 Foodbank Hunger Report also show the combination of unaffordable and unavailable housing is making it harder than ever for people to make ends meet.  

The report highlights that 50 percent of renters and 28 percent of mortgage holders in NSW and the ACT are now food insecure. A significant number of households cited “changes in household or living arrangements”, such as moving house or rising rent, as a key reason for their food insecurity.

Samantha Prescott, Chief Operating Officer of Foodbank NSW & ACT, said the organisation is seeing more people forced to make impossible choices between paying for housing or putting food on the table. 

“When rent goes up or interest rates increase, food is often one of the first things sacrificed. Over a third of Aussies are struggling to make ends meet, and just one in five households are living comfortably on their current income.    

“Food insecurity doesn’t look one way – it can affect any of us at any time. We’re hearing from people who’ve never needed help before; middle-income earners, people with jobs earning $90,000 a year.    

“This isn’t just about poverty. It’s about a system where even working Australians can no longer afford the basics. We believe everyone should have access to the food they need, but we can’t make that happen without the support of our communities and partners. 

“Every dollar donated allows us to provide two meals to someone in need. We urge our communities to stand with us and help ensure no one goes hungry.”  

Samantha Prescott

COO of Foodbank NSW & ACT

As the cost-of-living crisis hits Australians harder than ever, Foodbank NSW & ACT is calling on the support of those who can help. 

To support Foodbank NSW & ACT, visit the Donate Now page below.  

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please visit the Find Food Assistance page below and look for the ‘Find Food’ button. 

Dan Elsom

  

Communications Manager

For all state media enquiries

M: 0439 425 176 

E: daniel.elsom@foodbanknsw.org.au

Take action today

Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Donate Now

Every dollar provides two meals.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Find Food Assistance 

If you or someone you know needs help.

Find out more
Join the messiest, most fun fundraiser.

Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

Find out more

Housing crisis fuels food insecurity

1 in 3 NSW & ACT households going hungry

Every night, families across NSW and the ACT face an impossible decision: pay for shelter or eat dinner. For many, hunger is becoming a regular part of life. 

The hidden link between housing costs and hunger

The housing affordability crisis is no longer just a matter of shelter; it’s now a major driver of food insecurity across NSW and the ACT. According to the newly released Foodbank Hunger Report, a staggering 1 in 3 households in NSW and the ACT have gone hungry in the past year. 

Despite targeted cost-of-living relief and early signs of economic recovery, the combination of skyrocketing rents, rising interest rates, and limited housing availability is forcing families to make impossible choices, often sacrificing food to keep a roof over their head. 

1.1 million households facing food insecurity

The report reveals that:

  • 1.1 million households in NSW and the ACT experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months.
  • 682,000 households faced severe food insecurity – skipping meals, compromising nutrition, or going entire days without eating.

“Housing costs are pushing people to the brink,” said John Robertson, CEO of Foodbank NSW & ACT. “When rent goes up or interest rates increase, food is often one of the first things sacrificed. We’re seeing people make impossible choices between paying for housing or putting food on the table.” 

John Robertson

CEO of Foodbank NSW & ACT

Hunger doesn’t discriminate: who’s most affected?

The impact of the housing and hunger crisis is widespread, but some groups are hit harder than others: 

  • 50% of renters and 28% of mortgage holders in NSW and the ACT are food insecure.
  • Single-parent families are among the most vulnerable.
  • Middle-income earners, including those earning up to $90,000 annually, are increasingly seeking food relief.
  • Households with people living with disabilities or health issues are disproportionately affected; two-thirds are food insecure, and half face severe hunger.

Stigma is stopping people from seeking help

Despite the growing need, many people are still reluctant to seek assistance:

  • 45% feel embarrassed or ashamed to ask for food relief.
  • 35% worry others are in greater need.

“There’s still a stigma around asking for help, and that’s heartbreaking,” said Robertson. “Food insecurity doesn’t look one way. It can affect any of us at any time.”

How you can help

As demand for food relief continues to rise, Foodbank NSW & ACT is facing a new challenge: record-low food donations. To meet the growing need, the organisation is now purchasing more food than ever before.

“Every dollar donated allows us to provide two meals to someone in need,” Robertson said. “We urge our communities and partners to stand with us and help ensure no one goes hungry.” 

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Learn more about our impact

Read the full Foodbank Hunger Report 2025.

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