The Great Unwaste with Mandy Hall

In-depth study reveals Australian households waste twice as much food as they think

Today, 29 September, sees the launch of The Great Unwaste, a nationwide, first-of-its-kind campaign designed to unite Australia in a movement to reduce food waste in our homes.

Coinciding with the UN International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (29 Sep) and developed by national not-for-profit End Food Waste Australia (EFWA), the movement aims to rally households across the country to make simple changes that can have a big impact on reducing the amount they throw away, saving money and creating a more sustainable future for Australia.

Commenting on the launch, the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, Minister for the Environment and Water, said: "Australian households throw out about 2.5 million tonnes of food a year, often without realising it. But by making small changes at home, we can cut down our food waste, save money and protect the planet. Most people hate wasting food - and hate wasting money. This campaign helps with practical tips to reduce waste."

The launch follows the completion of research by the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre into Australians' food waste habits, which commenced in 2021. This significant body of research, the first-of-its-kind in Australia, revealed that the average household wastes more than twice as much food each week than they think - 4.22kgs compared to the perceived 2.03kgs^[1].

With Australian households currently throwing out 2.5 million tonnes^[2] of food each year, the equivalent of approximately 7.7 million meals^[3] every single day, the findings also revealed that nearly half of Australians (46%)^[4] agree they could do more to reduce their household waste, while 45%^[5] are seeking better information and support to tackle the problem. This demonstrates a clear desire among Australians to make positive changes, with the right guidance and tools.

The Great Unwaste has set an ambitious target to reduce the 2.5 million tonnes figure by approximately 20% by 2030, as part of Australia's goal to halve food waste by that year.

Mandy Hall, Campaign Director at End Food Waste Australia says: "No one sets out to waste food and we'd all like to improve, it's why Australians are being asked that important question that makes you stop and think. Are you wasting more than you think?  We know Australians are looking for ways to save food at home, and we're here to help. The Great Unwaste is about providing Australians with practical, relatable ways to reduce the amount of food we throw away in our busy daily lives and make a real difference. We're rallying all Australians to join the movement and be part of the change we need to see in our homes and communities."

"Food brings us all together, it's the glue the binds the family event, the fundraiser at the local school or sporting club, date night, or dinner out with friends. It's the knowledge of what it takes to produce food, it is food's capacity to equalise, show love, nourish and sustain. Most of our most treasured memories are linked with the food we eat in some way. So why, if something is such a profound and intrinsic human need, and such a source of connection, are we all wasting so much more of it than we think?"

By introducing simple, yet effective habits that can significantly impact food waste reduction, such as proper food storage, flexible meal planning, and creative use of leftovers, The Great Unwaste aims to empower Australians with the tools and tricks needed to turn food waste around.

As the movement continues to grow it will feature inspiring stories from everyday Australians who have successfully reduced their food waste, proving that small changes can lead to significant results.

EFWA has been enabled to develop and launch this game changing campaign through initial grant funding provided by the Australian Government, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. EFWA has also worked with representatives from across industry, not for profit sector, and each state and territory to collaboratively develop the campaign.

Rolling out across multiple channels, including digital platforms, social media, and community engagement initiatives, Australians are being asked to join the movement today at www.thegreatunwaste.com.au.

Together we can make Australia a leader in reducing household food waste, helping to protect our environment and keep more money in our pockets.