Struggling to survive.
The Red Shield Report 2025
Our research
The Salvation Army’s Research and Outcomes Measurement team conducts research each year to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of people we serve.
This year’s research project focused on the financial situations, cost–of-living pressures, housing situations, life challenges, and aspects of health and wellbeing of almost 3600 community members who accessed assistance from our Doorways emergency relief services in the past year. The findings provide valuable insights into the lives and circumstances of many vulnerable households in Australia.
Red Shield Research Report 2025
In the last 12 months, yet more, the lack of money has severely affected my life. There have been times when I’ve had to skip meals just to ensure that my daughter and pets could eat. I’ve been unable to pay my electricity bills for almost two years, and relying on borrowing money has only added to my stress and anxiety.
- 25-year-old woman from New South Wales
Impact of the Salvos
Find out how The Salvation Army’s Doorways emergency relief services played a vital role for those with no other safety net.
Our findings
Main themes
- Persistent financial stress and widespread incidence of living below the poverty line
- Challenges in meeting increasing cost-of-living expenses
- Food insecurity due to economic factors and high food prices
- Inadequate and strained resources to cover housing costs and concerns about becoming homeless
- Hardship restricting access to appropriate medical and healthcare for those with chronic conditions or disabilities
- Financial hardship negatively impacting on mental health and wellbeing
More about our services
What is Doorways emergency relief?
The Doorways program seeks to support people facing situational and long-term disadvantage, break the cycle of poverty and alleviate financial hardship. Doorways provides immediate help such as food, clothing or financial assistance with paying a bill, or longer-term support through casework and advocacy.
What do Doorways caseworkers do?
Doorways caseworkers provide wrap-around support to people, including:
- Advocacy and support
- Information and advice
- Case management
- Goal setting
- Positive Lifestyle Program (PLP)
- Community connections
Doorways caseworkers help people identify their personal goals, skills and strengths and offer support to address areas of concern, journeying alongside people to achieve meaningful life outcomes.
Read more about the Salvos Doorways and emergency relief