Food insecurity among university students in Australia: A systematic review of prevalence, predictors, health and academic outcomes.

AIMS: Food insecurity has increasingly been recognised as a significant challenge among university student populations in Australia. This systematic review aimed to synthesise existing evidence on the prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of food insecurity among university students in Australia.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted (May 2025), following PRISMA guidelines, across eight databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ERIC, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Informit, and PsycINFO). Studies were included if peer reviewed, published in English since 2000, and food insecurity was assessed among students attending tertiary institutions in Australia. Two authors independently screened search results against the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

From 1450 records, 23 met the inclusion criteria: 20 quantitative (n = 105-3077) and 3 qualitative or mixed methods (n = 14-64). 17 studies assessed the prevalence of food insecurity, reporting rates between 9.0% and 77.9%. Fifteen studies examined predictors of food insecurity. Key risk factors included being an international student (n = 2), low income/limited financial resources (n = 3), unstable employment (n = 3), younger age (n = 5), and living alone (n = 9). 6 studies found associations between food insecurity and poor dietary patterns; 5 studies reported associations with poorer physical health. 6 studies identified associations with increased anxiety, depression, and stress, and 2 of 4 studies reported associations with poorer academic performance. Qualitative findings suggested that food insecurity exacerbated existing health conditions and weight management. Studies evaluating interventions to improve student food insecurity were not identified.

CONCLUSION

Food insecurity is highly prevalent among Australian university students and was associated with poorer diet and health, and to reduced academic performance. Despite evidence of widespread impact, no evaluated interventions were identified, underscoring the need for coordinated research and policy action in higher education.