Report warns of empty Aussie bellies

Australian charities are struggling to cope with a food shortage that is forcing thousands of families to go hungry.

The Stop Hunger report released today by the relief organisation Foodbank has found 65,000 people are being turned away every month by charities who simply do not have enough food. Of those they can help, 65 per cent do not get all the food that they need.

Foodbank helps feed 473,000 Australians every month, and one in three of them is a child.

Foodbank NSW CEO Gerry Anderson says rising fuel and electricity prices and other cost of living increases are pushing families past breaking point.

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"What happens with a lot of the low-income families is that any little hiccup in their cash flow becomes a disaster," Anderson said.

"Unfortunately food's become a discretionary spend."

The charity takes excess food and produce from farmers and manufacturers, but says it needs more room for storage as demand continues to climb.

If you think you can help or want to know more about the charity go to the Foodbank website.