A national study by the Salvation Army has revealed shocking rates of poverty with survey participants surviving on an average of less than $18 a day, after covering housing costs.
The survey of 2400 people who visited Salvation Army centres across Australia found their average weekly income was $305 but they spent $180 on accommodation, leaving just $125 to cover all other expenses including food, transport, clothing and utility bills.
Across all households, those on the Newstart allowance had the least money after housing costs, with childless couples managing on just $9.57 a day.
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