This inquiry final report paints a concerning picture of rising food insecurity, fueled by the increasing cost of living, inadequate income support and a complex interplay of social and economic disadvantages. The report analyses the social, economic, and health impacts of food insecurity and its interactions with poverty more broadly. 

The report recommends a multi-pronged approach to improving food security, including enhancing food literacy, supporting social enterprises, and addressing food waste. The most significant recommendation is the development of a Victorian Food Security Strategy that prioritizes a shift from a relief-based model to one that builds resilience by tackling the underlying drivers of poverty, empowering local communities, and strengthening the food relief sector.

Key findings

• At least 8 per cent of Victorians experience severe food insecurity, but the rate is likely to be much higher.
• Food insecurity is higher among populations that experience other forms of disadvantage, including low-income earners, Aboriginal people and young Victorians.
• Rising costs and decreasing availability of essential goods and services (such as health, housing and transport) have increased the risk of food insecurity.
• Food insecurity is a significant contributor to poor health outcomes, as well as being closely linked to poor mental health.
• Poverty and hardship are both drivers and consequences of food insecurity.

Key recommendations

• Develop a Victorian Food Security Strategy and appoint a Minister for Food.
• The Victorian Government should invest in food education and food literacy programs. 
• Trial and evaluate a school meal program, targeting schools with high rates of disadvantage.
• Amend the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities 2006 (Vic) to enshrine the right to adequate food. 
• Advocate to the Commonwealth Government to support the implementation of a national food donation tax incentive. 
• Explore potential penalties for food waste in the supply chain. 
• Increase income support payments to alleviate food insecurity and poverty.
• Establish a national definition of multidimensional poverty, so that clear and tangible benchmarks can be set toward its elimination.