Cost-of-living pressures in Tasmania’s poorest households are intensifying, according to a new report.
Researchers examined survey data measuring the impact of rising prices and changing incomes on household spending. The report found the poorest 20% of households are spending almost all their income on basic goods and services.
Co-author Professor Richard Eccleston said dependance on debt and charity is unsustainable in the long-term.
The report concludes the next Tasmanian government must develop short and long-term goals to ease the crisis. Recommendations include providing more concessions to needy households and ensuring state-owned utility and service providers are cost-effective.
Read more at University of Tasmania