Media Coverage
Institute of Community Directors Australia; August 5, 2025
A new study by charity Good360 Australia has found that an increasing number of Australians are experiencing “hygiene poverty”, where rising costs mean they can no longer afford essential personal hygiene or cleaning products.
Almost one in seven surveyed Australians reported struggling to afford cleaning products in the six months leading into the survey, with one in eight saying they were experiencing hygiene poverty for the first time.
Almost one-third of young people (30 per cent of 18–24-year-olds) and one in five women (21 per cent) were concerned about their lack of ability to afford personal hygiene or cleaning products.
“While some commentators have declared that the cost-of-living crisis is over, our research has uncovered the heartbreaking reality that millions of Australians are struggling to afford everyday basics such soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, household cleaning products and feminine hygiene products such as tampons,” said Good360 Australia founder and managing director Alison Covington.
“Eliminating hygiene poverty isn’t just about ensuring people have access to these products, it’s about helping people to live a dignified and healthy life. There should not be millions of Australians, including children, going without the basics they need to thrive.”
The national survey was conducted online in July 2025, with percentages calculated from responses matched to ABS population data. All up, it showed that up to four million Australians are living with hygiene poverty, with potential effects on their confidence and health.
Read the full article over at Institute of Community Directors Australia.
