Dear Fellow Australians,

Picture yourself on a winding journey through the heart of our coastal landscapes. Take a moment to step into the boots of a Drive In Drive Out (DIDO) worker, the unsung heroes of our nation's industries. These dedicated individuals brave rugged terrains, confront wildlife hazards, and navigate treacherous roads in their relentless pursuit of honest work. The challenges they face are monumental, but their stories often go unheard.

As our highways become a shared space for a diverse range of travelers, from nomads towing caravans to DIDO workers, the risks escalate. Giant trucks and road trains thunder alongside smaller vehicles, demanding respect and caution. We've all seen those signs warning about fatigue-related accidents, urging us to rest. Yet, there are moments when we push ourselves to the limits in the pursuit of livelihoods.

Unlike Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) workers who enjoy employer-arranged transportation, DIDO workers must fend for themselves, often relying on personal vehicles or purchasing additional ones to spare their primary means of transport. While some receive travel compensation, it's not the bonus it may seem. After weeks of demanding work, the journey home can stretch into grueling hours, leaving them fatigued and despondent, yearning to be with family and loved ones.

We can't ignore the roadside crosses marking the spots where lives were tragically lost. These aren't just statistics; they're lives extinguished and families forever altered. Australia endures an alarming annual toll of approximately 1200 road fatalities, a number that keeps rising. Many more endure harrowing accidents, leading to injuries that require hospitalization and lengthy recoveries. Some live with disabilities stemming from the dangers they face on these perilous roads.

Over the last decade, the mining industry has injected billions into Australia's economy, but let's remember that behind these impressive figures are workers like DIDO employees who tackle immense challenges to sustain this industry. It's time to ensure that some of this wealth returns to the communities that need it most.

Adding to these difficulties, flights out of small rural towns are often prohibitively expensive. A one to two-hour flight can cost over $500 or more, an unjust expense. These flights usually connect to capital cities, requiring additional flights or long drives to reach the final destination. The infrastructure in these small towns often falls short of supporting these needs, making flights inaccessible.

And there's another pressing issue – DIDO workers cannot claim flights, parking, or even taxis on their tax returns for their journeys to and from work. While some workers can deduct travel expenses, DIDO workers are often left without this financial relief, putting an undue burden on them and their families.

We firmly believe that DIDO workers should enjoy the same rights and benefits as their counterparts when it comes to tax deductions for work-related travel expenses. This would alleviate some financial strain and acknowledge the unique challenges they face in their line of work.

**This is a rallying call to action. We implore you, our fellow Australians, to stand alongside us by signing this petition.**

Your support can amplify the voices of DIDO workers, bringing their sacrifices to light. Together, we can forge a future where their journeys are safer, their burdens lighter, and their contributions truly valued.

Please add your name to this petition and share it with your network, friends, and family. Let's unite for a positive change in the lives of hardworking DIDO workers.

Thank you for dedicating your time to this vital cause. We eagerly await your support and the transformative change it can deliver to the lives of these resilient individuals.