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I work two casual jobs and study part-time at TAFE. Most mornings, I’m up before sunrise to catch a train and two buses. On paper, the fares don’t seem much — but the time? That’s what really hurts.

By the time I get home, I’ve missed dinner with my family. I can’t afford to move closer to the city, and there’s nothing I can rent near my job. People talk about opportunity, but for many of us, opportunity is a two-hour trip each way.

I don’t want special treatment — just better transport and affordable housing where I actually live.

I’m a single mum with two kids under ten. I work in community care and pick up shifts when I can. The rent went up twice last year — $160 more a week — and I still don’t know how I’m keeping up.

My oldest wants to play soccer, but I can’t justify the registration fees. Some nights, I skip dinner so the kids can have seconds.

When politicians say “cost of living,” I wish they could see our weekly shop, our energy bills, the way we stretch every dollar. It’s not just numbers — it’s choosing between being a good parent and keeping a roof over our heads. 

I’ve lived here my whole life. Summers used to be hot, but now they’re unbearable.

I don’t drive anymore, and walking to the shops feels dangerous in the heat. The footpaths are cracked, the bus stop has no shade, and my air con bill last January was more than my pension increase for the whole year.

They talk about “liveability,” but for us, it’s about survival.

If Western Sydney’s the future, it needs to be built for people who actually live here — not just the ones who can afford to move in later.

I came to Australia from Pakistan ten years ago. I drive a rideshare car, my wife works in aged care, and we are proud to call Mount Druitt home.

But sometimes, it still feels like we live in two worlds — one that gets investment, and one that waits.

We don’t need charity; we need fair access. Better local jobs, affordable childcare, community spaces that bring people together. We’ve built our lives here. We just want the same chance to thrive as anyone in Sydney’s east or north.