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To: House of Representatives

Affordable Gluten-Free Food: Coeliac Necessity

We urge the government to introduce a subsidy for essential gluten-free foods, which are critical to the health and well-being of Australians living with coeliac disease. For those affected, maintaining a strict gluten-free diet is not a choice but a medical necessity, crucial to avoiding severe health complications. However, the significantly higher cost of gluten-free staples such as bread, pasta, cooking ingredients, and breakfast foods places a substantial financial burden on individuals and families, making it difficult for many to afford these essential items.

The disparity in pricing between regular and gluten-free foods means that Australians with coeliac disease are disproportionately impacted by the rising cost of living. These individuals must already contend with the challenges of managing a lifelong condition, and the additional financial strain only exacerbates the difficulties they face daily. As such, it is imperative that we address this inequity by providing targeted support, ensuring that all Australians can afford the food necessary to maintain their health.

We call upon the government to prioritise the health of those living with coeliac disease by implementing a subsidy for gluten-free essentials. Such a measure would not only alleviate the financial burden on affected individuals but also promote health equity across the country. By taking this step, the government would demonstrate its commitment to supporting all Australians in leading healthy, fulfilling lives, regardless of their medical needs.


Why is this important?

Supporting this petition is crucial to ensuring that Australians living with coeliac disease have equitable access to the food they need to maintain their health. Currently, gluten-free staples such as bread, pasta, and other essential ingredients are significantly more expensive than their regular counterparts. For those with coeliac disease, adhering to a strict gluten-free diet is not a matter of choice but a medical necessity. By supporting this cause, you are advocating for fair pricing and helping to alleviate the financial strain on individuals and families who already face the daily challenges of managing a lifelong condition.

This petition is not just about reducing costs; it's about promoting health equity and ensuring that all Australians have the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives, regardless of their dietary needs. By backing this initiative, you are contributing to a more inclusive society where people with coeliac disease are not unfairly burdened by the high cost of essential foods. Your support can help bring about meaningful change, making it possible for those affected to access the nutrition they need without financial hardship.

Updates

2024-09-02 13:33:27 +1000

20,000 signatures reached

2024-08-21 17:06:30 +1000

10,000 signatures reached

2024-08-18 20:43:55 +1000

5,000 signatures reached

2024-08-18 11:00:30 +1000

1,000 signatures reached

2024-08-18 10:05:08 +1000

500 signatures reached

2024-08-17 13:53:06 +1000

100 signatures reached

2024-08-17 11:11:52 +1000

50 signatures reached

2024-08-17 10:00:28 +1000

25 signatures reached

2024-08-17 09:21:27 +1000

10 signatures reached