National Carers Week – celebrating those who help others

Federal Minister for Families and Social Services the Hon Paul Fletcher MP and Assistant Minister for Social Services the Hon Sarah Henderson MP are encouraging Australians to acknowledge the enormous contribution of Australia’s carers this week.

 

Mr Fletcher said National Carers Week provides an opportunity to highlight the invaluable work of Australia’s 2.7 million unpaid carers to our families, communities and the nation.

 

“One in eight Australians care for a family member or friend who needs support due to disability, age, mental illness, or long-term physical illness,” Mr Fletcher said. 

“The Australian Government is committed to improving the social and economic well-being of carers whose efforts are estimated to contribute over $1 billion weekly to our national economy.”

 

Assistant Minister Henderson said this year’s theme – Why we care – is an opportunity to highlight National Carers Week and support the many Australians who care.

 

“The Government provides over $8 billion annually in carer payments, allowances and supplements to give carers financial relief while caring for their loved ones,” Ms Henderson said.

 

“Earlier this year, the Government announced an additional $85.6 million over four years to deliver a range of new supports through the Integrated Carer Support Service.

“New online services include peer support, counselling and educational resources to be designed and tested with carers and delivered through the Carer Gateway website from later this month.

“A network of Carer Gateway regional delivery partners will also be established nationally from September 2019, giving carers access to expanded services such as financial support packages, face-to-face counselling and emergency crisis support.” 

Ms Henderson thanked Carers Australia for its work in organising the Week and encouraged communities to get involved in local events. 

 

For further information on National Carers Week go to: www.carersweek.com.au.

Carer Gateway: www.carergateway.gov.au