Australia is in the grip of a growing food crisis, with 3.7 million households struggling to afford even the basics. The 2023 Foodbank Hunger Report highlights a stark reality—many Australians are experiencing food insecurity for the first time, including those who are employed. Spanning across age groups and communities, it’s clear: food insecurity doesn’t discriminate.
So, how does dairy come into this?
We all know (and can agree) that dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are tasty additions to any meal. But they’re also loaded with vital nutrients, containing:
- Calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Protein for growth and muscle support.
- Vitamins (such as B12 and D) that are essential for overall health.
But for many Australians, dairy has become a luxury they simply can’t afford.
CEO of Foodbank Australia, Brianna Casey, puts it bluntly: “An increasing number of Australians are forced to make difficult decisions about allocating their limited resources. People are making heartbreaking choices about what they can feed themselves and their families, and for many, they’re missing out on dairy.”
For families already struggling, missing out on these key nutrients can have serious health effects, especially for children, the elderly, and those with health conditions.
What can we do about it?
Recognising the critical role that dairy plays in a healthy diet, Foodbank Australia launched the National Milk Program in partnership with dairy farmers and milk processors across the country. This amazing initiative ensures that:
- A whopping 900,000 litres of fresh white milk are donated annually to Foodbank.
- Foodbank warehouses are stocked with essential dairy products to support vulnerable communities.
- Milk is readily available to those who need it most, helping to provide important nutrients year-round.
“Dairy is one of those products that we can’t get enough of,” says Brianna. “Whether it’s fresh milk, yoghurt, or cheese, we want to make sure these nutritious foods are available year-round, especially during tough times.”
The power of partnership.
The success of the National Milk Program is a result of collaboration (and plenty of passion) across the entire dairy supply chain. Dairy farmers, who already face challenges like droughts, floods, and rising production costs, are some of Foodbank’s most generous supporters. They donate fresh milk, which is processed by milk processors and then distributed through Foodbank’s logistics network. It’s inspiring, to say the least.
This well-oiled machine ensures that chilled and frozen dairy products reach those in need across the country, even in the most remote areas. It’s a true paddock-to-plate operation, with everyone—from farmers to transport teams—playing a vital role in ensuring that vulnerable Australians have access to high-quality, nutritious food.
Brianna regularly shares her admiration for the dedication of dairy farmers: “Dairy farmers are some of our most generous and kind donors. We are so proud to work paddock to plate with the dairy industry.”
Now, let’s look at the bigger picture.
Food insecurity isn’t just about hunger. It’s bigger than that. It’s about ensuring that people have access to the right kinds of foods. Dairy is an essential part of providing the nutrients needed for a healthy diet, and thanks to the National Milk Program, vulnerable Australians can benefit from these important products.
There’s still a long way to go.
As the cost of living rises, support from individuals, businesses, and communities is more critical than ever. The National Milk Program proves what’s possible when people unite, but only ongoing efforts will ensure no one is left behind.
If you’re asking, ‘How can I help?’
Heaps of ways. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, you can support Foodbank’s efforts to fight food insecurity.
