McCarthy calls for Food affordability in remote communities

By PETER ROWE

The Federal Government is planning to invest $11.8 million to develop a National Strategy for Food Security in remote First Nations communities after it was revealed recently groceries in remote stores are often 50 per cent more expensive than in regional supermarkets.

The Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, hosted a roundtable in Canberra on Wednesday with other cabinet ministers, remote retailers and the National Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation.

“Food security in remote First Nations communities is a key priority in my role as Minister for Indigenous Australians,” Senator McCarthy said.

“Consistent access to affordable, nutritious and fresh food is vital to good health outcomes, yet First Nations people living in remote communities face a number of barriers to this basic life essential.”

Items on the agenda at the meeting included remote supply chains and the role industry can play in reducing prices, to help ease cost of living pressures affecting remote First Nations communities.

The National Strategy, to improve access to nutritious and affordable food and groceries, is expected to be finalised by early 2025.

There are over 200 remote community stores across Australia, supporting around 150,000 First Nations people.

Senator McCarthy said government was working with industry to address cost of living pressures in these communities.

“All players along the remote supply chain have a role in improving access to affordable and nutritious food,” she said.

Prices in several remote parts of northern Australia are double that of urban areas of the country.

The ABC recently reported a packet of Tim Tams would normally cost about $5 online shopping, but in the remote areas that will jump to almost $12.00.

Laundry powder ($4 online) is $9 in remote stores.

Even a can of baked beans is double (about $2.80 online compared to $6 in the store).