Friday, 7 February 2025
NCOSS has applauded the NSW Government for expanding its free breakfast program to an additional 88,000 public school students.
NCOSS CEO Cara Varian said this was a critically important step to help children below the poverty line who often start the day hungry.
“NCOSS has repeatedly called for a universal free breakfast and lunch program in public schools, and we commend the NSW Government for today’s announcement,” Ms Varian said.
“Evidence shows that a lack of access to healthy and nutritious meals can place kids at higher risk of obesity and severely impact their academic performance.[1]
“Foodbank’s School Breakfast 4 Health program has made a tremendously positive impact on students, easing low-income household budget pressures and improving student learning and attendance.[2]”
Ms Varian encouraged further expansion of the program.
“While we acknowledge this is a good start, we need to go further,” Ms Varian said.
“Food insecurity is a silent and growing issue. Families and children are often not comfortable to declare their need. The future of NSW is best served by having a universal program that enables all children to access nutritional food every day without stigma or shame.
“It’s not fair to have some kids benefit from this policy, while others still go hungry.
“We encourage the NSW Government to expand the program to include lunches and be implemented in every public school across the state.
“We look forward to continuing working with the NSW Government on these important initiatives and ensuring our most disadvantaged communities are being heard.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Billy Briggs | 0474 697 235 | [email protected]
[1] Rosier, K (2021). Food Insecurity in Australia: What is it, who experiences it and how can child and family services support families experiencing it? Viewed 13 November 2024 https://aifs.gov.au/resources/practiceguides/food-insecurity-australia-what-it-who-experiences-it-and-how-can-child
[2] Foodbank Australia (2024). Hunger Report 2024. South Yarra, Victoria.