Feeling a little under the weather lately?
A survey by Australian Council of Social Service (also known as ACOSS) found individuals from financial and social disadvantaged backgrounds are experiencing serious health issues under these high temperatures.
80% of participants expressed symptoms ranging from headaches to nausea, and increased anxiety and depression.
With more than half of them unable to afford energy bills, these individuals have been left with rising costs and potential debt.
A Disability support pensioner, Julie McKenzie, lives in subsidised housing in Sydney, but is concerned over power bills doubling in costs despite her energy saving efforts and stagnating welfare payments.
The ACOSS CEO urges the government to invest further in energy efficiency and solar power across all low-income housing.