Snapshots of food security status in Western Sydney post-COVID-19 lockdown: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 lockdown had significant effects on daily life, particularly food security among Australian adults. This study examined the longer-term impact of lockdown measures on food security in Western Sydney, a region more socio-economically challenged within the Sydney area. METHODS: A total of 548 adults were recruited via convenience sampling at least 6 months post-lockdown (May-August 2022 and January-February 2023). Of these, 523 completed the validated six-item USDA Household Food Security Survey Module and were included in the quantitative analysis. Fifty-four participants took part in 12 focus group discussions (FGDs), including some participants who did not complete the survey. FGDs explored food security perceptions based on its four pillars, both during and after lockdown. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted manually in Excel and verified in NVivo (version 14.23.0). RESULTS: The mean age of survey participants (n = 523) was 25.1 ± 9.7 years, and 63% were women. Among participants with available birthplace data (n = 521), 267 were Australian-born and 254 were overseas-born; birthplace information was missing for two participants. Only 6% reported improved food security post-lockdown. Using the USDA tool, females were significantly more likely than males to report meal size reductions post-lockdown (p = 0.0001)> FGDs revealed that food availability, access, utilisation and stability were affected by rising food prices, fear of virus contamination and shifts in shopping habits during and after lockdown. CONCLUSION: While the measured food insecurity prevalence was low based on the survey findings, the qualitative findings indicated that some participants continued to experience disruptions or vulnerabilities related to food security at least 6 to 15 months post-lockdown. These findings highlight the need for both crisis-responsive and recovery-oriented food security policies, with particular attention to supporting adult women who appear disproportionately affected.