Where to get food this week
Food · 3 min read
Free meals, food pantries and vouchers exist in nearly every suburb. Most need nothing from you but turning up — no ID, no referral, no questions.
Three different kinds of help
- <strong>Community meals</strong> — a cooked meal, usually free, at set times.
- <strong>Food pantries</strong> — groceries at a very low price, often $10 to $15 for a large box.
- <strong>Emergency relief</strong> — a food voucher for a supermarket, through a charity.
What to expect
Most pantries ask for a name and postcode and nothing else. Some ask to see a concession card. If a place asks for something you do not have, ask them who nearby does not — they will know.
Bring bags and a way to carry it
Boxes are heavy. If you are walking or on a bus, bring sturdy bags or a trolley, and ask for what you can carry.
Food help checklist
- Check the opening times before I go
- Take bags or a trolley
- Take a concession card if I have one
- Ask if they also do vouchers
- Ask what else they can help with — some do bills and clothing too
- Ask when the next delivery day is
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This is general information, not legal, financial or medical advice — the rules differ between states and territories.
Not an emergency service
If you’re in immediate danger, call 000. For family and domestic violence support any time, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).