Cost-of-living crisis: 66 per cent of vulnerable Aussies are struggling to pay their bills on time
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You may have heard about the cost-of-living crisis making waves throughout our country.
A recent study shows that almost two-thirds of vulnerable Australians struggle to pay their bills on time, with many resorting to drastic measures to make ends meet.
This worrying situation, brought to light by new research from the Salvation Army, not only highlights the harsh reality for people living on a tight budget but also emphasises the importance of supporting one another and our communities during these difficult times.
According to the Salvation Army survey, 60 per cent of the 1,700 respondents were conserving water by cutting back on showers, and a quarter even reduced heating to save on energy costs.
The figures reveal the tough choices many Aussies face, with one respondent admitting, 'This isn't living, it's surviving. I'm living week-to-week and getting deeper into debt.'
Evidently, the cost-of-living crisis isn't just affecting the most vulnerable Australians—it's also leading to unprecedented pressure on everyday citizens.
Families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, with a recent Anglicare Australia Living Costs Index revealing that a family of four earning the minimum wage is left with a mere $73 a week after essential expenses, whereas a single worker without kids has just $57 to spare.
With so many Australians struggling to keep their heads above water, it's no surprise that almost 75 per cent of shoppers have turned to generic brands to save money, as revealed by a Compare the Market study.
We understand the importance of budgeting and saving—but it seems that this increasingly challenging economic environment is pushing even more people to make tough decisions while affecting lives across the nation.
To help combat this crisis, the Salvation Army is aiming to raise $37 million through its renowned Red Shield Appeal, which runs until June 30.
Salvos Major David Collinson stressed, 'It is now more expensive to be poor in this country. Our community members are making the most devastating decisions. Having to decide whether to put the heating on to stay warm in winter can literally be the difference between life and death.'
Apart from contributing to the Red Shield Appeal, some of our readers might be interested in volunteering their time and skills at local Salvation Army centres or other community organisations.
Whether it is assisting with meal preparations, homework clubs, or administrative tasks, your help can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this crisis.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his support for the appeal, saying, 'It's a tough time, with global inflation having an impact. My mum, although she had nothing, would always give to The Salvos every time. The good thing about The Salvos is that you know every dollar goes towards helping people.'
To contribute to the Red Shield Appeal, consider donating online or supporting one of their fundraising events.
With this in mind, let's band together and share our own cost-saving tips and success stories with our community. Feel free to comment on this article to exchange ideas and support one another through these testing times.
A recent study shows that almost two-thirds of vulnerable Australians struggle to pay their bills on time, with many resorting to drastic measures to make ends meet.
Nearly 60 per cent of Australians struggle to meet their bill payments on time. Image from Shutterstock
This worrying situation, brought to light by new research from the Salvation Army, not only highlights the harsh reality for people living on a tight budget but also emphasises the importance of supporting one another and our communities during these difficult times.
According to the Salvation Army survey, 60 per cent of the 1,700 respondents were conserving water by cutting back on showers, and a quarter even reduced heating to save on energy costs.
The figures reveal the tough choices many Aussies face, with one respondent admitting, 'This isn't living, it's surviving. I'm living week-to-week and getting deeper into debt.'
Evidently, the cost-of-living crisis isn't just affecting the most vulnerable Australians—it's also leading to unprecedented pressure on everyday citizens.
Families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, with a recent Anglicare Australia Living Costs Index revealing that a family of four earning the minimum wage is left with a mere $73 a week after essential expenses, whereas a single worker without kids has just $57 to spare.
With so many Australians struggling to keep their heads above water, it's no surprise that almost 75 per cent of shoppers have turned to generic brands to save money, as revealed by a Compare the Market study.
The Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal aims to raise funds to support individuals and families in need. Source: Employment Plus
We understand the importance of budgeting and saving—but it seems that this increasingly challenging economic environment is pushing even more people to make tough decisions while affecting lives across the nation.
To help combat this crisis, the Salvation Army is aiming to raise $37 million through its renowned Red Shield Appeal, which runs until June 30.
Salvos Major David Collinson stressed, 'It is now more expensive to be poor in this country. Our community members are making the most devastating decisions. Having to decide whether to put the heating on to stay warm in winter can literally be the difference between life and death.'
Apart from contributing to the Red Shield Appeal, some of our readers might be interested in volunteering their time and skills at local Salvation Army centres or other community organisations.
Whether it is assisting with meal preparations, homework clubs, or administrative tasks, your help can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this crisis.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his support for the appeal, saying, 'It's a tough time, with global inflation having an impact. My mum, although she had nothing, would always give to The Salvos every time. The good thing about The Salvos is that you know every dollar goes towards helping people.'
To contribute to the Red Shield Appeal, consider donating online or supporting one of their fundraising events.
With this in mind, let's band together and share our own cost-saving tips and success stories with our community. Feel free to comment on this article to exchange ideas and support one another through these testing times.
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