International students in Australia are increasingly facing shortages of fresh, healthy and nutritious food as they battle ongoing food insecurity, according to Allianz Partners.
Statistics from Allianz Partner's inaugural State of Student Healthcare Report reveal more than a third of international students in Australia can't afford to eat fresh fruit and vegetables - despite contributing a whopping $34 billion into Australia's economy each year.
Allianz Partners Executive Head of Health, Miranda Fennell emphasised the importance of supporting the hundreds of thousands of people coming to Australia to study each year.
"We know 74% of students are experiencing financial pressure. The rising cost of living can leave these bright minds, who contribute so much to our educational landscape, going hungry," Ms Fennell said.
"At Allianz Partners, we believe in fostering a strong and inclusive community and have a long history of supporting students in those moments that matter while studying in Australia," Ms Fennell said.
Allianz Partners partnered with Foodbank Australia, the nation's largest food relief organisation, to tackle this issue.
Foodbank Australia Chief Executive Officer Brianna Casey AM said Australia is a popular place to study but visiting students were facing mounting challenges as the cost of living continued to soar.
"We know the number one reason Australian households struggled to meet their food needs is the cost of living crisis1, and it is no different for international students studying in this country," Ms Casey said.
"Many are a long way from home and don't have that support network in place to ensure they have access to healthy food options on a regular basis. We know that many Australians who need help, aren't seeking help, because they may be too embarrassed to reach out or they feel someone deserves it more," Ms Casey said.
In July, Allianz Partners and Foodbank Australia launched the first international student food market at UNSW, one of eight activations at university campuses across
Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. The partnership will provide essential food supplies and raise awareness about the diverse faces of food insecurity.
The markets will offer access to a variety of nutritious offerings including fresh fruit and vegetables and pantry products. Each student will be able to access a number of nutritious food products at no cost.
By shining a light on the hidden struggle of international students facing food insecurity, Foodbank Australia and Allianz Partners hope to raise awareness about the diverse faces of food insecurity and encourage dialogue and support for international students.
MARKET DATES AND LOCATIONS
August 27 - University of Queensland, St Lucia Campus, Brisbane
September 12 - Holmesglen Institute, Chadstone Campus, Melbourne
October 3 - Monash University, Clayton Campus, Melbourne
October 10 - James Cook University, Townsville
October 23 - Australian National University, Acton Campus, Canberra
