Sydney: Catholic social service groups in Australia have urged political leaders to take stronger action to address rising inflation, saying the increasing cost of essential goods and services is placing heavy pressure on vulnerable households.

Recent figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show inflation climbed to 3.8 percent in October, up from 3.6 percent the previous month.

Housing costs rose by nearly 6 percent over the past year, and electricity prices saw a steep surge of more than 37 percent. Food prices also increased, especially meat and seafood, while annual rent increases reached over 4 percent.

Catholic Social Services Australia chief executive Jerry Nockles said the economic strain is not just a financial challenge but a growing social concern. He said many families and individuals are now making difficult decisions about whether to pay bills, buy nutritious food or delay medical treatment.

According to the sector, people most affected include single parents, pensioners, people with disabilities, refugees, First Nations communities and those relying on welfare payments. Many low income households are now spending more than a third of their earnings on housing alone.

With the Christmas season approaching, Catholic organisations are calling on lawmakers to listen to community concerns and prioritise policies that support fairness and the common good. The sector says it hopes political decisions in the coming months will ease financial pressure and protect those most at risk of hardship.