Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I stand here in support of my community to present a petition on behalf of residents who have requested financial assistance for those suffering with epilepsy. Those who are not able to receive disability support are having to pay for all their own medication, doctor's appointments, dietary needs, transportation and seizure warning systems, all of which are a requirement to keep seizures under control. In addition, the side effects of medication, both physically and emotionally, can have a great impact on their everyday lives and, I'm advised, can also make working in an employed capacity almost impossible.

The petition as presented highlights the importance of desperately needed financial assistance in order to effectively help those living with epilepsy to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as many within our communities live with the condition throughout their whole lives. Times are tough right now, and seizure control is the key to keeping people healthy. However, unfortunately, many people cannot afford the recommended ketogenic diet, which has proven to be helpful for epilepsy and seizure control. Petitioners have requested that the government provide financial assistance to those with epilepsy who are experiencing a cost of living that is so much higher than others'. I know many within my local community do suffer with epilepsy, and I fully understand their request for this financial assistance given the pressure and impact on their day-to-day living.

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