URGENT UPDATE: The Griffith CWA is spearheading a crucial campaign to address food sustainability issues as part of this year’s Awareness Week, running from September 7 to 13. This initiative, in collaboration with other chapters of the Association, focuses on tackling the pressing issues of food wastage and the ongoing struggles families face to secure meals.
With over 7.5 million tonnes of food wasted in Australia annually—70% of which is still edible—the time for action is NOW. The Griffith CWA aims to spotlight these alarming statistics while helping families cope with rising food prices amid the cost-of-living crisis.
According to Griffith CWA branch president Cheryll Steele, the campaign will promote seasonal eating and support local producers. “Adhering more to eating foods that are in season, and even locally grown, can make a real difference to household budgets, our health and levels of food waste,” Steele stated.
The campaign also advocates for a national food donation tax incentive. Steele emphasized the need for change: “When we see the figures around how much Australians waste in food each year, it’s astonishing, and all the more alarming when you also consider how many NSW and ACT households are experiencing food insecurity.”
Recent statistics reveal that more than 640,000 households in New South Wales and the ACT faced severe food insecurity last year, many from regional or rural areas. This Awareness Week, the Griffith CWA is committed to educating communities on how they can make impactful changes, not just in their own homes, but for others across Australia.
The campaign has joined forces with the food relief organization Foodbank and renowned food writer and advocate Sophie Hansen. Together, they aim to create a ripple effect of awareness and action regarding food sustainability and hunger.
As the CWA gears up for this significant week, the spotlight is on the urgent need for community involvement and awareness. Steele urges everyone to participate and make a difference: “Things need to change, and this Awareness Week, we’re turning our focus to these issues and showing our communities how they can make a big difference.”
Stay tuned for more updates as the campaign unfolds. This is a pivotal moment for Australian families and communities—your involvement can lead to significant change.
