The two women are living off the same box of rations as Syrian refugees living in Jordan, as part of the 2018 Ration Challenge. 

The campaign, which started in 2014, aims to raise awareness and money about the conditions, with participants eating the same the refugees for a week. 

Ms Vile, who has volunteered with Syrian refugees in Greece, said the challenge was important for raising awareness. 

“It’s only a week, and when you think about what refugees are going through year after,year so I thought I would give it a go," Ms Vile said.

“I’ve found it harder than I thought. Australia is abysmal with its treatment of refugees so I think the challenge is a good way of showing a different side to the refugee crisis which people don’t often hear about.

Ms Vile has already raised more than $1500 for the Ration Challenge through sponsorship.

“That was my goal so I’m quite happy. I’ve had a lot of support from my friends and family,” she said.

The small ration box is made of basic staples and includes 420 grams of rice, 170 grams of lentils, 85 grams of dried chickpeas, 400 grams of kidney beans, 300 millimetres of vegetable oil and 125 grams of sardines –for a whole week. 

The money people raise will provide food, medicine and education for refugees, and support for refugees across the globe.

Ms Stuart has raised more than $700 in her fundraising efforts, and said the challenge has deepen her understanding of the conditions for refugees. 

“It’s been a bit confronting, and has definitely opened my eyes,” Ms Stuart said.

“There’s no variety. It’s about survival, and getting from one day to the next when it comes to food.”

The Ration Challenge started with 100 pilot participants and now it is estimated more than 12,000 signed up this year.

People can donate for Sue Vile at my.rationchallenge.org.au/sue-vile or Sarah Stuart at my.rationchallenge.org.au/sarah-stuart.