Willis, Eileen, Pearce, Meryl, and Thallon, Annabel (2012) The potential impact of mainstreaming government services and water on the food security of a regional Indigenous community: insights from a focus group. Australian Indigenous Health Bulletin, 12 (3). July-September.

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Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the potential impact of increased household costs associated with mainstreaming government services and charging for water on the food security of a regional Indigenous community.

Methods: Qualitative data were obtained through focus group sessions held with members of the community in June 2009. Participants were asked to quantify their living expenses and how the move to individual household water billing would affect their expenses and food security.

Results: Residents in the community were found to be particularly vulnerable to food insecurity due to their low-incomes, disproportionately high living expenses, and lack of transport. Findings indicate that it is not uncommon for residents to run out of food, however, the altruistic nature of neighbours, particularly in relation to food, meant that nobody went hungry for long periods.

Conclusions: It is expected that as a result of increased water costs residents will experience higher levels of utility stress and be at a greater risk of food insecurity due to their reduction in disposable income.

Implications: The heightened level of utility stress and food insecurity is likely to have implications for the well being of residents in the community. Furthermore, where there is existing morbidity, ill-health may be aggravated by poor diet and food insecurity.

Item ID:	58100
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1445-7253
Related URLs:	Publisher
Copyright Information:	© 2012 Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet
Date Deposited:	31 Jul 2019 03:03
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111701 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9203 Indigenous Health > 920301 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health - Determinants of Health @ 100%
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