October 12th 2025.
There is an urgent plea for assistance to be extended to those facing poverty, as newly released statistics reveal a concerning increase in the number of Australians living below the poverty line. In an exclusive report accessed by 9News, it was found that the exorbitant cost of housing continues to be the most significant factor contributing to financial hardship for many individuals and families.
For Angela Finch, a mother of three, each day is not about budgeting or saving, but rather a constant battle for survival. "It's a struggle that consumes every moment of my life, and that of my children," she shared. In order to ensure their safety, Finch was forced to relocate to a shelter, making it difficult for her to maintain her casual job. Sadly, her story is becoming all too common in today's society.
The Council of Social Services and UNSW recently released a report that sheds light on the harsh reality that one in seven Australians are living below the poverty line, equating to a staggering 3.7 million individuals. This means that these people are living on "less than half the median income". The report, based on data from 2023, shows an increase of almost 500,000 people compared to the previous edition. "As a mother, there is also the added pressure of feeling guilty for not being able to provide my children with things that their friends have," Finch explained.
It is concerning to note that despite then prime minister Bob Hawke's promise that "by 1990 no Australian child will be living in poverty", the ACOSS report reveals that one in six children now face financial hardships. "These children are everywhere, in every street and every school. People like me hide it because of the stigma attached," Finch added.
While there have been slight increases in jobseeker and rent assistance rates since the survey period, welfare groups argue that these are not enough. "We must address the adequacy of social security as it serves as the foundation for an individual's income," stated ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie. Helping families break the cycle of poverty is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek highlighted that since Labor came into government, jobseekers are approximately $4000 better off each year. "This is on top of other measures such as cheaper medicines, increased bulk billing, and fee-free TAFE courses," she explained. However, the rising cost of housing continues to be a major obstacle for those living in poverty.
At a recent economic roundtable, one of the issues discussed was how individuals struggling to find employment can be matched with the numerous businesses that are in dire need of workers. "We are aware that there are job opportunities available, and we also know that there are people actively looking for work. We need an effective employment services system to bridge this gap and help people secure long-term jobs," Goldie expressed. It is evident that addressing the issue of poverty requires a collaborative effort from the government, businesses, and the community as a whole.
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