The current housing crisis in Australia is not just a matter of bricks and mortar; it's a crisis that's seeping into the very wellbeing of its citizens. As the cost of living soars, many Australians are finding themselves in a precarious position, having to make tough choices that affect their health and comfort.

A recent large-scale survey has shed light on the stark realities faced by many, revealing that a significant number of Australians are skipping doctor's appointments and living in cold homes to cope with financial strain.

Renters face long lines amid the housing crisis in Australia. Source: NCA NewsWire / Flavio Brancaleone

The survey, conducted by advocacy body Everybody’s Home, included responses from 1,528 renters, homeowners, and individuals without stable accommodation. It painted a grim picture of the sacrifices people are making to stay afloat. Alarmingly, 58 percent of respondents reported spending more than 30 percent of their household budget on housing, a clear indicator of housing stress.

Survey finds essentials foregone to keep households afloat

As the cost of living bites, 63 percent of renters admitted to reducing their energy use, including forgoing heating and air conditioning, to save on bills. This is particularly concerning as we head into the colder months, where adequate heating is not a luxury but a necessity for health and wellbeing, especially for our senior community members.

Moreover, the survey found that over half (54 percent) of renters are sacrificing essential healthcare appointments. This is a distressing statistic, as regular check-ups and timely medical interventions are crucial for maintaining health, particularly as we age. Skipping doctor's visits can lead to worsening of chronic conditions and delayed diagnosis of new health issues.

Other cost-cutting measures reported by respondents included reducing car use (44 percent), skipping meals (42 percent), and an increased reliance on credit cards and 'buy now pay later' schemes (40 percent). These strategies may offer short-term relief but can lead to long-term financial and health problems.

The housing crisis is not just a matter of economics; it's a public health issue. Former NSW Labor senator and Commissioner Doug Cameron highlighted that the testimonies presented to the People’s Commission are a result of 'decades of failed policy.' Co-Commissioner and housing expert Nicole Gurran emphasized the need for policies informed by those most affected, allowing their lived experiences to shape immediate and long-term solutions. ‘“For too long Australia’s housing policy paralysis has been sustained by dominant interests and ill-designed ‘solutions’ which have served only to maintain the status quo,’ she said.

The federal and state governments have acknowledged the lack of housing supply as a significant barrier to affordability, affecting both renters and buyers and contributing to a severe shortage of social housing. In response, Australia aims to deliver 1.2 million homes between July 2024 and 2029, with the federal budget earmarking $6.2 billion to boost supply and support infrastructure development.

While these measures are a step in the right direction, they are long-term solutions. Immediate action is needed to alleviate the financial pressures that are forcing Australians to choose between their health and a roof over their heads.

Key Takeaways

• High proportions of Australians are experiencing housing stress, leading them to skip essential items such as doctor’s appointments and reduce energy use.
• A survey revealed that more than one in two respondents were spending more than 30 per cent of their income on housing, which is considered to be in housing stress.
• Cost-cutting measures due to the housing crisis include skipping medical appointments, reduced heating and air conditioning, minimising car use, skipping meals, and relying on credit facilities.
• The People’s Commission has heard from distressed Australians and experts, urging for government action and informing policy based on the lived experiences of those most affected by the housing crisis.

Members, we want to hear from you. Have you or someone you know been affected by the housing crisis? Have you had to forgo essential services like heating or medical appointments to manage your budget? Share your experiences and thoughts on what can be done to address this critical issue. Your stories and insights are valuable as we continue to advocate for change and support each other through these challenging times.

 

[IAN3005]

I already have taken measures:

1. no AC or heating.
2. Eat once per day - everything is weighed to stretch the budget.
3. Switch off all lights - even at night... only have the light on in the room I am in.
4. Only shower once per month. reduced the gas bill by over 50%
5. Cook outside on gas as that is half the price of supplied gas.
6. shop once per month to save petrol.
7. Shop only basics at the cheapest price - preferably reduced because of expiry date.
8. wash clothes once per month in cold water.
9.As it is the rent exceeds the pension by $751 per month
10. Reduced the private health cover by 50% but considering doing away with it altogether.
11. Doing away with the phone.
12. Got rid of the wife.
13. Reduced the food bill by 30% a month and still going.
Apart from that I may as well get into a bottle and put the cork in.

 

[Jo Piper3]

funny

 

[Babbie]

I already have taken measures:

1. no AC or heating.
2. Eat once per day - everything is weighed to stretch the budget.
3. Switch off all lights - even at night... only have the light on in the room I am in.
4. Only shower once per month. reduced the gas bill by over 50%
5. Cook outside on gas as that is half the price of supplied gas.
6. shop once per month to save petrol.
7. Shop only basics at the cheapest price - preferably reduced because of expiry date.
8. wash clothes once per month in cold water.
9.As it is the rent exceeds the pension by $751 per month
10. Reduced the private health cover by 50% but considering doing away with it altogether.
11. Doing away with the phone.
12. Got rid of the wife.
13. Reduced the food bill by 30% a month and still going.
Apart from that I may as well get into a bottle and put the cork in.

You don’t sound very happy.

 

[IAN3005]

You don’t sound very happy.

As happy as Larry
As long as people leave me alone.

 

[DLHM]

As happy as Larry
As long as people leave me alone.

I wish you many years of whatever makes you happy.

I’m not being patronising. I can relate to your last sentence because I felt that way for many years.

 

[IAN3005]

I wish you many years of whatever makes you happy.

I’m not being patronising. I can relate to your last sentence because I felt that way for many years.

No worries.... I know what you mean....I like to be left alone, weeks can pass by with not a word uttered....Bliss...