Carer Business Discount Card
In 2003, the Queensland Government introduced the Queensland Government Carer Recognition Policy to formally recognise the significant role of Queensland carers in the community. The Queensland Government Carer Action Plan 2006-2010, launched in December 2006, translates this policy into a series of actions to be implemented over the next four years.
Both the Carer Recognition Policy and the Carer Action Plan were developed following extensive consultation with representatives from peak bodies and other key stakeholders across Queensland.
Carers are defined in the Carer Recognition Policy as: …'a person of any age who, without being paid, cares for another person who needs ongoing support because of a long-term medical condition, a mental illness, a disability, frailty or the need for palliative care. A carer may or may not be a family member and may or may not live with the person. Volunteers under the auspices of a voluntary organisation are not included.'
One of the key initiatives emerging from the Carer Action Plan is the introduction of two new cards, one of which is the Carer Business Discount Card. The Queensland Government has committed $6M over four years for Disability Services Queensland and the Department of Communities to develop and administer these cards.
The Carer Business Discount Card, referred to in the Carer Action Plan as a Carer Card, will provide eligible carers with the opportunity to obtain discounts from participating businesses. The card will be similar to the existing Seniors Business Discount Card and the Foster Carer Card.
To be eligible for a Carer Business Discount Card, a carer will need to show that they:
- are a resident of Queensland; and
- receive the Centrelink Carer Payment and/or the Centrelink Carer Allowance.
The Carer Business Discount Card will provide cardholders with some genuine financial benefits in recognition of their contribution to the people they care for and the community. The card also has the potential to generate higher economic activity for participating businesses in metropolitan, rural and regional areas through the increased spending of carers. Business participation in the scheme is voluntary.
More information about the card and how to apply either online, over the telephone, or by submitting an application form is available at the Carer Business Discount Card website.
Last updated July 2008