Cost-of-living relief locked in for vulnerable Queenslanders

• The Crisafulli Government is delivering cost of living relief to support vulnerable Queenslanders, after a decade of financial mismanagement under Labor.
• $18.8 million in funding delivered to help vulnerable people access food relief services, financial counselling and emergency relief assistance.
• Includes ongoing funding of $4.9 million until 2029 for Foodbank Queensland, OzHarvest and SecondBite to help expand access to nutritious food across Queensland, including regional areas.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering cost of living relief for vulnerable Queenslanders, securing continued access to food relief, financial counselling and emergency relief assistance.

As the national cost of living crisis continues to impact households across the state, the Crisafulli Government has announced an $18.8 million package in the 2026/27 Budget to support those most in need.

The funding includes:

• $4.2 million for food security, including guaranteed funding until 2029 for key food relief organisations such as Foodbank Queensland, OzHarvest and SecondBite.
• $5.6 million for emergency relief services, providing immediate financial assistance to individuals and families facing unexpected hardship.
• $9 million for financial counselling and resilience services with ongoing funding until 2030 that will be delivered in high needs locations, helping Queenslanders manage financial stress and build long-term resilience.

Emergency relief support is available through community organisations across Queensland, to help cover essential costs including food vouchers, GoCards and contributions towards utility bills and essential household items.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering relief you can rely on in the middle of a national affordability crisis, after a decade of financial mismanagement under Labor.

Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services Amanda Camm said the Crisafulli Government’s Budget delivered a record cost of living package for Queenslanders.

“This funding would provide an ongoing lifeline to those struggling to make ends meet,” Minister Camm said.

“Food is often one of the first things households cut back on when times are tough, which is why this investment in food security is so critical.

“By supporting food and emergency relief organisations and funding financial counselling, we’re taking a holistic approach to supporting Queenslanders through tough times.”

OzHarvest Queensland State Manager Micheala Windsor said food insecurity in Queensland had grown sharply in recent years and OzHarvest has expanded our operations rapidly to meet that need.

“Every dollar invested in OzHarvest delivers two meals for someone in need through our 330 recipient charities,” Ms Windsor said.