“Mum, when do you get paid again? I need to pay for camp.” I hesitate to answer. My next pay day is in 3 days, but with the rent and accumulating bills, most of my pay is already gone. Especially in current times, it’s hard to face tomorrow.
The cost of living is steadily rising in Australia and around the world. Australia has seen innumerable crises – bushfires, COVID-19, droughts, and floods – which have impacted on our overall quality of life and financial stability.
To make matters worse, the continual rising prices of basic expenses like petrol and groceries has put a strain on every household in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the quarterly and annual increases are the largest since the introduction of the GST more than 20 years ago.
While this inflation has had an adverse effect on all families, it has been debilitating for others; hitting low-income households the hardest, since they must spend a larger portion of their budget on the most basic of necessities.
People whose household’s income lies below the relevant poverty line are unlikely to reach a generally acceptable minimum standard of living unless they have access to other resources such as substantial savings. They are likely to miss out on essentials that most people take for granted such as decent and secure housing.
Moreover, people are at greater risk of mental illnesses. There is an increase in reports indicating low life satisfaction and a reduction in wellbeing, including increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Given the heavier burden to earn sufficiently to feed our families, it is not surprising that we are feeling more stressed and overwhelmed.
Having the responsibility of being the head of the family has never been so taxing, as it gets harder and harder to make ends meet and keep the family happy. These demands put a strain on married couples, often causing marital discord and pushing relationships to breaking point.
For single-parent households, this burden is carried alone, exacerbated by the guilt and helplessness resulting from being unable to purchase toys or new clothes for their children, or spending on items relating to self-care.
This is a problem affecting all of us. A problem that we don’t need to face individually. Financial struggle shouldn’t be a source of shame or embarrassment. Emotional and mental strain doesn’t need to be carried alone.
National Zakat Foundation has the resources and personnel, ready to assist families in need, during these difficult times. They have programs tailored to alleviate different issues and to cater for families and individuals with different needs.
All you have to do is let them know. Together, we can face tomorrow. National Zakat Foundation 1300663729 or www.nzf.org.au
Comments