Food insecurity, defined as limited or uncertain access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food, is a growing concern in high-income countries(1). University students are particularly vulnerable due to rising tuition fees, high living costs, limited financial support, and the transitional nature of student life. (2). Food insecurity may significantly impact students' academic performance, physical health, and mental well-being, potentially undermining their educational success(3). Given the unique financial and social circumstances shaping food insecurity in the Australian context, a focused review is needed to understand its prevalence, predictors, and impacts among university students. This systematic review synthesises empirical evidence on the prevalence, predictors, and impacts of food insecurity among Australian university students. This review followed PRISMA guidelines to identify, appraise, and synthesise relevant studies. Eight databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ERIC, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Informit, PsycINFO) were searched from inception to 2024 using keywords related to food insecurity, university students, and Australia. Studies were screened by two independent reviewers against predefined inclusion criteria. Of 1,450 screened studies, 23 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Twenty studies were quantitative (sample sizes ranging from n = 105 – 3077) and two studies were qualitative or mixed methods (sample sizes from n = 14 to 64). Studies that assessed the prevalence of food insecurity (n = 17) identified prevalence statistics ranging from 9.0% to 77.9% of the student sample. Studies employed a range of tools, most commonly the 6, 10 and 18-item Household Food Security Survey Modules (n = 17). Across n = 15 studies that explored predictors of food insecurity, demographic determinants associated with increased food insecurity risk included being an international student (n = 2), having low income or limited financial resources (n = 3), unstable employment (n = 3), being younger (n = 5), and living alone (n = 9). Six studies linked food insecurity to poor dietary patterns and five studies demonstrated a significant inverse association between food insecurity and poor physical health. Qualitative findings explained students perceived that food insecurity exacerbated existing health issues and weight management problems. Other studies (n = 6) reported a strong association between food insecurity and increased anxiety, depression, and stress, while two out of four studies found a significant association with to poorer academic performance. Food insecurity is a widespread issue that compromises student health, well-being, and academic success, highlighting the need for urgent, targeted interventions.
Organisational and national policy are needed to support student financial wellbeing and improve accessible food support programs for Australian university students, particularly younger and international cohorts.