Thousands of babies exposed to health risks because parents can't afford new nappies

Babies across Australia are developing serious infections not because they are sick, but because their parents are forced to reuse soiled nappies. It's a shocking and largely unseen public health crisis affecting families struggling to make ends meet.
 

To help raise national awareness, Australia's leading health, wellness and skin expert Dr Vincent Candrawinata, has joined The Nappy Collective as an official advocate. Drawing on his extensive scientific and health background, Dr Vincent is using his platform to highlight the serious and growing health impacts facing babies and young children due to nappy poverty.

Dr Vincent is highly respected for his antioxidant research work with the University of Newcastle and his wellness company, Renovatio. As the scientific lead at Renovatio, the brand has developed the world's first range of health and wellness products using 100 percent Australian apples for skin care, inner health and food preparation.
 

"No child in Australia should be at risk of infection because their parents can't afford something as basic as a clean nappy," Dr Vincent said.
 

"As a scientist and health and wellness expert, I've seen firsthand how something so simple can have devastating long-term effects, from rashes and skin breakdown to infections that require hospital care. We have to act now to ensure every baby is protected and cared for."
 

The hidden cost of poverty
 

One in six Australian children lives in poverty. For many families, the rising cost of essentials means that nappies become an unaffordable luxury, forcing parents into impossible choices such as skipping meals to buy nappies or reusing dirty ones. Many families are also using nappies for far longer than recommended or washing and reusing soiled disposable nappies, practices that are highly unsanitary and can cause serious skin and health complications.
 

"Prolonged exposure to moisture, bacteria and waste can lead to painful nappy rash, urinary tract infections, and fungal or bacterial skin infections," Dr Vincent said.
 

"In more severe cases, children can develop open sores, cellulitis and systemic infections that may require antibiotics or hospitalisation. These preventable health issues are becoming increasingly common among families experiencing financial stress and are placing additional pressure on an already stretched healthcare system."

Sue Karzis, CEO of The Nappy Collective, emphasised that more needs to be done to address the silent health crisis impacting children who do not have a voice.
 

"We witness daily the hidden impact of the cost-of-living crisis. The mental and physical toll on parents and children is enormous," Karzis said.
 

"During Anti-Poverty Week, we're calling on Australians to help ensure every child has access to this most basic necessity. By addressing nappy poverty, we can relieve pressure on families and give children the dignity and care they deserve."
 

Anti-Poverty Week Appeal
 

During this year's Anti-Poverty Week, which takes place nationally from 12 - 18 October 2025, The Nappy Collective is aiming to raise $10,000 to provide nappies and relief for families in need. Donations can be made to the Nappy Collective's fundraising campaign until 26 October. Dr Vincent is helping by lending his voice, credibility and scientific insight to draw attention to the seriousness and prevalence of this issue. He is also drawing on his own experience as a parent of a young child and the importance of good nappy hygiene.
 

The Nappy Collective depends on the generosity of the community to provide babies with this essential item and give families the peace of mind they deserve. Donations can be made online at https://www.thenappycollective.com/anti-poverty-week-appeal.
 

About The Nappy Collective
 

The Nappy Collective is a national Australian charity dedicated to supporting families experiencing nappy stress, the struggle to afford enough clean nappies for their babies and young children. Founded in 2013, the organisation collects unused disposable nappies and redistributes them to families in crisis through a network of community organisations and social service providers across the country.
 

Each year, The Nappy Collective helps thousands of parents and carers meet one of their most basic needs, promoting the health, dignity and wellbeing of children nationwide. The organisation also advocates for greater public awareness of nappy poverty and its hidden impact on child health, poverty and social equality.
 

For more information or to donate, visit www.thenappycollective.com