Supermarket inquiry reveals heartbreaking struggles Aussies are facing
- Replies 9
As we navigate the aisles of our local supermarkets, filling our trolleys with the essentials and perhaps a few treats, it's easy to overlook the complex dynamics that shape our shopping experience.
However, a recent inquiry into the supermarket sector has peeled back the curtain, revealing the stark realities of Australian grocery habits, and the pressures many face in keeping their pantries stocked.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has been delving deep into the state of the supermarket industry, and what they've found is both concerning and illuminating.
With over 13,000 Australians contributing their voices to the inquiry, a picture emerged of a nation grappling with the rising cost of living, with groceries taking a significant bite out of household incomes.
For some, the financial strain led to heart-wrenching decisions.
Reports of parents skipping meals to ensure their children are fed, and individuals foregoing fresh produce in favour of cheaper frozen alternatives, are a sobering testament to the sacrifices being made.
According to the survey findings, a higher proportion of young Australians and households with lower incomes are dedicating 25 per cent of their earnings to their weekly grocery purchases.
The inquiry's findings resonated with the experiences of many, yet, the World Bank's data positioned Australia as the third most expensive G20 country for groceries, a ranking that adds weight to the daily challenges faced by shoppers.
The ACCC's supermarkets inquiry isn't just about numbers and statistics; it's about the lived experiences of everyday Australians.
Deputy Chair Mick Keogh emphasised the importance of these personal stories in understanding the full impact of grocery pricing on the cost of living crisis.
With a call for more submissions before the April 2 deadline, Mr Keogh aims to enhance the breadth of expertise within the inquiry to provide a more comprehensive perspective to the government.
‘Taking into account the demographics of those who have already responded, we particularly want to hear from more adults under the age of 30, people for whom English is not their first language, and people in rural and regional parts of Australia,’ he urged.
‘Having responses that reflect the whole community’s experience will help us to identify the right issues that need to be explored more deeply in our inquiry.’
You can go to this link to submit your own responses.
The government instructed the ACCC to initiate an inquiry into Australia's supermarket industry in January, marking 16 years since its previous comprehensive investigation into the sector.
Within its purview, the ACCC is examining various aspects such as the pricing strategies adopted by supermarkets, the involvement of small and independent retailers, and the ramifications of enhanced data collection and technological advancements.
Results from the consumer survey will be incorporated into the ACCC's interim report, scheduled for release by the end of August.
This inquiry by the ACCC is one of several ongoing investigations delving into the operations of Australia's supermarkets, as calls intensify for government action to dismantle the dominant position held by Coles and Woolworths.
Have you found innovative ways to save on your weekly shop? Are there particular challenges you face in accessing affordable, nutritious food? Let us know your insights and experiences in the comments below.
However, a recent inquiry into the supermarket sector has peeled back the curtain, revealing the stark realities of Australian grocery habits, and the pressures many face in keeping their pantries stocked.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has been delving deep into the state of the supermarket industry, and what they've found is both concerning and illuminating.
With over 13,000 Australians contributing their voices to the inquiry, a picture emerged of a nation grappling with the rising cost of living, with groceries taking a significant bite out of household incomes.
An ACCC inquiry found that Australians are changing their shopping habits due to the current cost-of-living crisis. Credits: Shutterstock
For some, the financial strain led to heart-wrenching decisions.
Reports of parents skipping meals to ensure their children are fed, and individuals foregoing fresh produce in favour of cheaper frozen alternatives, are a sobering testament to the sacrifices being made.
According to the survey findings, a higher proportion of young Australians and households with lower incomes are dedicating 25 per cent of their earnings to their weekly grocery purchases.
The inquiry's findings resonated with the experiences of many, yet, the World Bank's data positioned Australia as the third most expensive G20 country for groceries, a ranking that adds weight to the daily challenges faced by shoppers.
The ACCC's supermarkets inquiry isn't just about numbers and statistics; it's about the lived experiences of everyday Australians.
Deputy Chair Mick Keogh emphasised the importance of these personal stories in understanding the full impact of grocery pricing on the cost of living crisis.
With a call for more submissions before the April 2 deadline, Mr Keogh aims to enhance the breadth of expertise within the inquiry to provide a more comprehensive perspective to the government.
‘Taking into account the demographics of those who have already responded, we particularly want to hear from more adults under the age of 30, people for whom English is not their first language, and people in rural and regional parts of Australia,’ he urged.
‘Having responses that reflect the whole community’s experience will help us to identify the right issues that need to be explored more deeply in our inquiry.’
You can go to this link to submit your own responses.
The government instructed the ACCC to initiate an inquiry into Australia's supermarket industry in January, marking 16 years since its previous comprehensive investigation into the sector.
Within its purview, the ACCC is examining various aspects such as the pricing strategies adopted by supermarkets, the involvement of small and independent retailers, and the ramifications of enhanced data collection and technological advancements.
Results from the consumer survey will be incorporated into the ACCC's interim report, scheduled for release by the end of August.
This inquiry by the ACCC is one of several ongoing investigations delving into the operations of Australia's supermarkets, as calls intensify for government action to dismantle the dominant position held by Coles and Woolworths.
Last edited:
.png){kind=icon}
