In this episode of Stronger Together, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O’Shea sits down with Jess Watkinson, General Manager of Foodbank Queensland, to explore the growing issue of food insecurity and the ongoing cost of living crisis affecting Queenslanders.

Jess shares how Foodbank Queensland operates as the state’s largest hunger relief organisation, collecting and distributing more than 13 million kilograms of food every year to people doing it tough. From the incredible generosity of Queensland farmers to the logistics of managing warehouses, trucks and “surprise chains,” Jess explains how her team turns surplus food into vital support for communities across the state.

The conversation moves beyond food relief to the broader challenge of achieving food equity – ensuring that every Queenslander can access nutritious, affordable food regardless of their circumstances. Jess also discusses the importance of collaboration across sectors, from local charities and farmers to government and corporate partners, and the need for a national food donation tax incentive to better support primary producers.

Tanya and Jess also discuss Anti-Poverty Week, held from 12 to 18 October, and Jess’s role as Co-Chair of the Queensland Committee. Together with Penny Kramer from Play Matters, Jess is leading an initiative to raise awareness of poverty in Australia, including an event at Parliament House that highlights campaigns like Raise the Rate, End Child Poverty and Everybody’s Home.

Throughout the episode, Jess shares powerful insights about the stigma of food relief, the importance of data in driving change, and how community collaboration can build a Queensland without hunger. She reminds listeners that food is a human right, and that poverty and food insecurity can affect anyone – even dual-income families.

Listeners are encouraged to visit foodbank.org.au to find food relief near them, or the Anti-Poverty Week website to learn how they can take action and add their voice to the call for change.

If this conversation raises difficult feelings, please reach out for help. Lifeline offers 24/7 support at 13 11 14. In the Wide Bay Burnett region, IMPACT Community Services is here to help. Visit impact.org.au and click Make a Referral to self-refer.

Together, we can create a future where no Queenslander goes hungry, because we are stronger together.

Thank you for listening to this episode of "Stronger Together" We hope you enjoyed the conversation and gained valuable insights.

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