As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us hold out hope for fresh beginnings, better opportunities, and a chance for improvement.
Unfortunately, for many Victorians, the dawn of 2025 is a stark reminder that last year’s struggles have not disappeared. From skyrocketing living costs to mounting social challenges, it seems that the issues we hoped would subside with time are only deepening.
Perhaps most pressing is the ongoing cost-of-living crisis that has placed an unbearable strain on families across the state. Despite a rise in employment rates, the problem is far from solved. Victoria’s unemployment rate in December was the highest in the nation at 4.4%, a slight increase from November, which means many Victorians remain out of work or underemployed. Even for those in jobs, the cost of living continues to erode any sense of financial stability.
One of the most heartbreaking signs of this reality is the increasing number of families turning to charities for help, particularly as school returns. The cost of education, which can amount to upwards of $144,000 over a child’s school years, has become an insurmountable burden for many. Charities like The Smith Family and State Schools Relief are seeing record levels of demand, especially as parents scramble to afford uniforms, books, and technology that their children need to succeed.
For single mothers these expenses are more than just a financial challenge—they are an emotional toll. With rising rent, fuel costs, and a recent job loss, they face agonizing decisions about whether to feed their children or buy their school supplies. Across Victoria, families who were once managing are now finding it harder than ever to make ends meet.
The situation is even more alarming in areas like Dandenong, Geelong, and Brimbank, where demand for assistance is particularly high. It’s a sign that the gap between those who are thriving and those who are struggling is widening, and the pressures of everyday life are pushing families into crisis.
Meanwhile, the Victorian police force is also facing challenges. The lure of higher bonuses and better incentives from Queensland is pulling officers away, exacerbating local recruitment woes. With over 1,000 vacancies in December, it’s clear that public services, which rely on strong community support, are also grappling with a shrinking workforce.
As we move further into 2025, it’s clear that the new year has brought no relief for those grappling with Victoria’s persistent issues. The growing reliance on charitable support for basic needs and the widening gap between the haves and the have-nots serve as a reminder that, while the year may have changed, the struggle for many remains the same. It’s time for real solutions—before more families are left behind.
