Policy Context

Income is a key social determinant of health and wellbeing, impacting access to health care, education, food security and support systems. Children and young people living in households with more secure income are more likely to have access to opportunities that promote good health and wellbeing.¹

As of 2025, the cost of living has been the most pressing issue felt by young Australians according to Mission Australia,² which has seen many families relying on government support payments to supplement income. Government income support payments are generally intended to supplement household income rather than serve as a primary source.³ Eligibility for these payments may change as a person’s circumstances change, meaning they may not provide a stable or ongoing source of income.

Children and young people living in households that rely on government support are more likely to experience socioeconomic disadvantage compared with those living in households where employee income is the main source of income.¹ Identifying areas where families are relying on other sources of main income enables a more comprehensive picture of child and youth disadvantage across the country.⁴