Cost-of-living increases affect us all, more so Carers who are facing added financial stress in being unable to provide a decent level of care for those they care for.

Just take a look at how much I paid for fuel earlier this week, $90.27 for 38 odd litres.

My fortnightly fuel bill alone is 58.81% of my paltry $153.50 Carer Allowance.

Those getting the Carer Payment of $1116.30 per fortnight would likewise be spending 8.1% upwards on fuel.

The Treasurer, like most politicians, is so out of touch with reality and community expectations that the government will look after those of us who can't work for various reasons, including those like myself who have no choice for medical reasons.

Just a few days ago the Treasurer categorically ruled out any further financial assistance to those in receipt of income support payments in this year's budget.

"Carers already live way below the poverty line and we are being quite literally driven further into destitution and homelessness."

Carers are saving the government, and the Australian taxpayer between $77.9 to $121.6 billion dollars a year?

"Carers are being, for want of a better analogy, financially sodomised."

Sweatshops are illegal, slave labour is a crime, yet the government condones same.

Carers deserve respect, recognition and proper remuneration for all that we do.

Let’s work together to get this Petition the support it deserves.