Food insecurity, the inconsistent access and availability of sufficient safe, affordable, and nutritious food, is a growing public health issue affecting more than 13% of Australian households (1). Research from the state of Victoria further suggests that two-thirds of food insecure Victorians are 18-44 years of age (2), underlining the disproportionate burden to those of reproductive age. The preconception period is increasingly recognised as a crucial stage in reproductive healthcare to shape pregnancy outcomes (3); however, evidence of how food insecurity affects women during this period remains limited. This study aimed to identify food insecurity prevalence among women in the preconception period living in Victoria, Australia; assess sociodemographic characteristics of women experiencing food insecurity; and explore the association of food insecurity on pregnancy planning. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted (April 2025 - March 2026) with women aged 18 to 44 years, residing in Victoria, Australia, proficient in English, and intending a future pregnancy. Food security status was assessed using the USDA Household Food Security Survey Module (10- and 18-item depending on parental status), alongside survey items to assess sociodemographic and pregnancy planning factors. Descriptive statistics summarised sample characteristics. Food security status was reported as binary food secure or food insecure categories, and by food security categories (high, marginal, low, and very low). Survey data was collected from 226 women (mean age 30.3 ± 5.7 years), with almost half identified as living in a food-insecure household (43.8%), comprising marginal (11.5%), low (16.4%), and very low food security (15.9%). Food insecurity was more prevalent among households with women experiencing unemployment, lower educational attainment, and lower household income. Women living in food-insecure households were also more likely to report that pregnancy timing was influenced by food-related factors, including food costs (PR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.50 – 2.99, p < 0.001), inadequate and inconsistent food access (PR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.03 – 1.83, p = 0.029), and concerns about having enough food during pregnancy (PR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.29 – 2.40, p < 0.001). Women in the preconception period in Victoria reported high rates of food insecurity and was associated with socioeconomic disadvantage and food-related factors influencing pregnancy planning and timing. Further research is needed regarding what actions should be taken to target prevention and management of food insecurity prior to pregnancy, ensuring optimal health of women and their babies across the perinatal period.