From spotlighting invisible hunger to partnering with grassroots initiatives, Dr Katherine Kent is reshaping how we understand and respond to food insecurity.
As part of the Food Fairness Illawarra Coordination Team and a researcher at the University of Wollongong, Katherine brings both academic insight and on-the-ground experience to the table. We spoke with her about what she’s learned, what’s working in our region, and why now is the time to turn up the volume on food justice — locally and nationally.
- You’ve spent years exploring food insecurity across different communities, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. What have been some of the most surprising or eye-opening things you’ve discovered along the way?
The scale of the issue has been the most surprising — so many people are doing it tough, often invisibly. But what’s been equally striking is the resilience and creativity people show in managing on limited resources. From meal planning to sharing food with others, many use a range of strategies long before seeking formal help. It’s shown me just how much strength communities hold, even in the face of hardship. - We often hear about national food insecurity stats, but your work zooms in on the local picture. Why is that local focus so important—and what kind of change can it help drive?
Local data gives us the detail we need to act. National stats set the scene, but they can miss who’s being left behind, where services are under pressure, and what’s already working. Local evidence empowers councils, communities, and service providers to tailor responses, build partnerships, and drive practical change where it’s needed most. - You’ve worked closely with community-led food initiatives — can you share one that really stood out to you? What made it work, and what can others learn from it?
A recent project with Box Divvy, a NSW-based food co-op, really stood out. Many members who joined were experiencing food insecurity and had low fruit and vegetable intake. Participation led to clear improvements in both—especially for those who had been struggling the most. It’s a great example of how alternative food networks can support both health and community resilience. - As your research found, cost-of-living pressures are impacting many in the Illawarra, with food being a major concern. From your research, what are some of the most pressing challenges facing local communities here, and what can be done at a local level to better support food security in the region?
Cost-of-living pressures are a major issue, but food insecurity still doesn’t get the attention it deserves locally. We need to raise its profile and bring more people—especially local leaders—into the conversation. A regional food strategy would help give direction and momentum to existing efforts, making it easier to scale what’s already working well. - Your research doesn’t stay stuck in reports—you actively collaborate with councils and local organisations. What do you think has helped make those partnerships successful, and how can more researchers take that practical, community-driven approach?
Strong partnerships are built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect. I try to contribute where I can — whether that’s data, teaching, or media support — and stay responsive to what communities and organisations actually need. I don’t try to do everything myself; it’s about working alongside those already doing the work and helping amplify their impact.
Discover what the new Illawarra food research means for our region.
