As an Australian citizen, I live daily witnessing the struggles of ordinary people around me while our past politicians, including former Prime Ministers, continue to live 'high off the hog' with privileges that seem excessive and unnecessary. It's disheartening to see such disparities between the lifestyle of those who are meant to serve the public and that of the general populace.

In the current system, political figures enjoy lifelong pensions and a range of perks, despite their previous roles earning them substantial salaries and benefits. In contrast, the everyday Australians battle with rising living costs and financial constraints. They manage their lives with structured budgets and fiscal discipline. This imbalance is not just unfair; it erodes public trust in our governance systems.

The fact that past politicians continue to receive these benefits even after their tenure, without accountability for how they utilize public funds, exacerbates the divide. Hence, I propose that:

1. All past politicians, including former Prime Ministers, be made to relinquish any ongoing privileges. They should survive strictly on their allotted pay without the cushion of pensions.
2. Current politicians should abide by the same financial scrutiny and accountability measures as any average Australian. No additional privileges should be afforded beyond their remuneration during active service.
3. It is crucial that their assets and expenditures are examined thoroughly, ensuring transparency and accountability for the public funds they manage.

Holding our leaders to the same standards as the citizens they represent can foster a fairer society and restore public confidence in our democracy. Politicians are public servants and should reflect the same financial discipline that the everyday Australian does.

Let us bring about change for the betterment of our society. If you agree that a fair and accountable system is paramount to our communal success, please sign this petition.