Zoe Daniel (Goldstein, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Bayside Community Emergency Relief has grown from an idea in 2019 to now providing much-needed assistance for people struggling under the cost-of-living crisis. Established by Goldstein resident Deb Brook, it's now providing food and other essentials to people in need, not only in bayside Melbourne but elsewhere. My supporters and I are in the midst of a food drive to help, with a cost-of-living forum where we're asking people to bring along non-perishable items for distribution. Deb points out that it is simple things like breakfast bars that are top of the list because when people haven't eaten for some time, they need immediate energy while their food package is being put together. Protein is then top of the list—tins of fish, baked beans, tinned stew—and also carbs—pasta and rice.

My team and I have surveyed Goldstein residents, who have said things like, 'I can't afford to heat my home this winter. I am working part-time, watching my super deteriorate and noticing price increases for everything I use and eat.' People are tightening their spending, our business earnings are down by at least 50 per cent and it's time to introduce a super profits tax on gas and coal producers—real stories from life in 2023. From little things big things grow. Thank you Deb Brook and Bayside Community Emergency Relief. Goldstein will do its best to help.