Increasing fuel prices are putting the pinch on everyone, but those living close to, or below the poverty line are hardest hit.

Anti-poverty advocate Dan Meades says increased fuel costs are not sustainable, affecting the price of all the goods that are shipped here for consumption.

He says a government response is needed, including a re-examination of the tax structure.

He says people need to be taxed based on their income, and not on the goods and services they need to purchase.

Meades suggests that if governments are serious about tackling poverty, then they need to take a serious look at the tax structure.