The St Vincent de Paul Society has launched its 2026 Winter Appeal in Tasmania, warning that more people than ever are cutting back on basics just to keep a roof over their heads.
The charity has been fielding around 21 requests for help per day in recent months, with 1,336 Tasmanians assisted in March alone.
A YouGov survey commissioned by the Society found 55% of Australians have had to reduce spending on essentials like medication, groceries and bills just to maintain their housing.
Nearly three in 10 Australians said they don’t have enough savings to cover an emergency expense, with around 3.7 million people strongly disagreeing they could handle an unexpected cost.
CEO Connie Digolis said financial vulnerability was widespread, with one in five Australians holding less than $100 in savings.
“Rents across Tasmania have risen sharply, around eight to 10% in the past year and more than 30% since 2020, placing affordable housing out of reach for many, particularly those on low or fixed incomes,” she said.
“Waiting lists at our Bethlehem House accommodation exceeds 150 people, with very few residents able to move on because suitable long-term housing simply isn’t becoming available.”
Sasha Banfield, the Society’s case coordinator for the northern region, said more families were being tipped over the edge every week.
“We are getting lots of comments from families that money isn’t going as far as it used to, with price rises at the supermarket a regular occurrence and fuel costs adding pressure on getting to work, school and appointments,” she said.
“Financial buffers are depleted. One event like getting injured, sick or having a change in employment can be the thing that moves people from getting by to treading water.”
Launceston-based national president Mark Gaetani said the findings showed how many people were entering winter with little to fall back on.
“Winter is one of the toughest times of year for those households the Society supports, but these figures show financial insecurity is now hitting many Tasmanians harder than ever,” he said.
“For households with little or no savings buffer, donations to the Vinnies Winter Appeal can help them to stay housed and to feel safe.”
Funds raised through the appeal will go towards food, bills and other essentials for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and poverty.
Donations can be made at donate.vinnies.org.au, by calling 13 18 12 or at Vinnies shops.
