Leading welfare organisations have issued a heartfelt plea to residents of Western Australia this Christmas, urging them to keep a watchful eye on neighbours, friends, and family members who may be struggling in silence.
Season of Struggle for Many
Despite the state's considerable mineral wealth, charities report that more West Australians are experiencing poverty than ever before. Anglicare WA's chief executive, Mark Glasson, emphasised that the festive period presents a significant challenge for countless individuals, both emotionally and financially.
"Christmas is a really hard time for a lot of people, and it's just been getting harder," Mr Glasson stated. He directly appealed to the community's spirit, asking people to look out for those around them during what should be a joyous time.
Alarming Data Reveals Growing Need
Official government and welfare statistics present a sobering picture for tens of thousands of households. Figures provided to The West Australian by the Financial Wellbeing Collective reveal a clear upward trend in people seeking critical assistance.
The data shows that the total number of individuals requesting emergency relief and food aid reached 34,919 for the entirety of 2024. However, by the end of November 2025, that figure for the current year had already climbed to 36,044, surpassing the previous year's total with a month still to go.
A similar increase is evident in utility hardship grants. Recipients of the Hardship Utility Grant Scheme numbered 28,121 so far in 2025, which is 1,397 more than the total for the previous year.
A Crisis Amidst Prosperity
Mr Glasson directly linked the rising distress to the ongoing housing crisis and intense cost-of-living pressures. "2025 has been marked by a continuation of the housing crisis and cost-of-living pressures being felt by West Australians," he explained.
He expressed deep concern over the expanding number of people living in poverty, a trend that contradicts the state's economic prosperity. "During the richest of times in Western Australia, the number of people who are doing it tough has grown and grown," Mr Glasson noted.
Helena Jakupovic, General Manager of the Financial Wellbeing Collective, warned that demand for emergency relief and utility support is not only high but accelerating. She anticipates this growth will continue into the new year, placing additional strain on support services that will require more resources to cope.
The collective message from welfare agencies is clear: this Christmas, the greatest gift for many struggling West Australians may be a simple act of neighbourly kindness and connection.
