Foodbank currently rescues over 37 million kilograms of food annually. However, it is estimated that current food rescue activities are meeting only 60% of the demand from people seeking food relief. Additionally the amount of food available is three times more than current food rescue industry capacity. Hence there is a significant opportunity to increase the amount of food rescued with the associated benefit of reducing food waste. To achieve this Foodbank will need to work with its many food rescue stakeholders.

 

Improved engagement of Foodbank’s stakeholders will develop better understanding of industry challenges and opportunities, and thereby assist in improving efficiency and effectiveness in its food rescue operations.

Enhancing stakeholder engagement is proven in research and practice to guide superior organisational performance. This project will improve Foodbank’s understanding of two key stakeholder groups, the:

• charities who distribute the food and have contact with the recipients of the rescued food.
• volunteers who provide a substantial contribution to the operations of Foodbank.

There is scope for Foodbank to expand its operations because:

• only 60% of the demand from people in need is met by existing food rescue organisations
• the amount of food available is as much as three times current food rescue industry capacity
• Foodbank is unable to meet high demand from volunteers, particularly from corporate volunteers.

This study will provide an accurate and up-to-date understanding of the food rescue and hunger situation in Australia. Enhanced understanding of motivations and expectations of volunteers may result in provision of a more satisfying volunteer experience, and potentially an increase in donation of free labour, money and goods by volunteers. Overall, this project will assist in increasing the amount of food rescued and provided to those in need.

 

As this project progresses, we will share the good news on this page by adding information, links, images, interviews and more.