In today's advanced society, it's a disgrace and frankly unacceptable that families in Australia are forced to choose between essentials like electricity and water due to financial constraints. Single mothers, like myself, should not have to face the despair of struggling to get power reconnected while an unforgiving debt looms over them. The wealth of our country is certainly capable of supporting every inhabitant by meeting their basic needs.

Every individual should have the right to basic living standards, a benchmark that any advanced society should meet. Ensuring that every household has access to necessary power and water inputs without immense financial burden is a fundamental step towards achieving this.

To address this pressing issue, we propose that every household utility account includes a free base rate. This means implementing a daily free usage cap to cover basic necessities such as smoke alarms, hot water, and charging devices, ensuring everyone can run these essentials without fear of the cost.

This change should not only apply to electricity but also extend to include water usage. Safe and clean water is a basic human right and should be provided without exception.

Statistics consistently show that Australians, on average, waste a good portion of their power on non-essential needs. What we propose is not something that will significantly burden utility providers nor the government, but an ethical decision to support those who struggle the most.

If we look globally, several countries have successfully integrated similar policies, recognizing the universal need for equitable access to utilities. It's time for our nation to step up and set this standard that reflects our shared values of fairness and humanity.

Join us in demanding that our government and utility suppliers acknowledge this necessity. By adding your signature to this petition, you are not only supporting families like mine but standing up for the dignity of all citizens who deserve the peace and security of knowing their basic needs are met. Sign the petition today and advocate for this imperative change to uplift households nationwide.