Recognition for unsung heroes
One of the many carers who provide all sorts of support to people with a disability.
They're the backbone of community care. They can be female or male, of any age, and they're from all walks of life. They're the 535 800 unpaid carers who play a crucial role in the lives of countless Queensland families.
"Carers save the Australian taxpayers $20 billion annually in unpaid care," said Graham Schlecht, Executive Director of Carers Queensland.
"These carers have been unsung heroes for too long. They want to be recognised for what they do and for their role in the community."
With one in two Australians expecting to be in a caring role within the next 20 years, organisations like Carers Queensland have been lobbying for carer recognition for a number of years. And their tenacity has paid off.
The Carer Recognition Action Plan, to be released mid 2005, identifies tangible outcomes that will not only assist carers but will ensure they continue to have a voice in issues that affect them and the people they care for.
"It's to the Government's credit that they have listened to carers and are responding to not only their needs for providing care, but their individual needs. Too often carers minimise their own needs which can be detrimental to their health and wellbeing," Mr Schlecht said.
The Action Plan is an extension of the Queensland Government Carer Recognition Policy that acknowledges, recognises and respects carers as individuals with their own needs.
For more information phone
Carers Queensland
Commonwealth Resource Centre,
1800 242 636
Go to www.carersqld.asn.au
Phone Disability Services Queensland,
3247 3720
Go to http://www.disability.qld. gov.au/community/carer-recognition/
Who are carers?
The term applies to anyone who cares for another person who needs regular help or support - frail aged, people with long-term medical conditions, mental illness, disability or need palliative care.
Carers can be female or male of any age and provide all sorts of help. Currently there are over 535 800 unpaid carers in Queensland , with approximately 111 300 being primary carers.
Caring for carers
"Take time off for yourself" was the message for thousands of carers throughout Queensland during Carers Week (17-23 October). Activities, outings and competitions organised by Carers Queensland gave many carers a well-earned break - if only for a few hours - that they desperately needed.
Carers Queensland supports carers through a range of services including emotional support and counselling, networks and support groups, resources such as a free carers kit, and referral to community and government services.
Phone 1800 242 636
Changes to carer allowance
Allowance if you care for a person aged 16 years or older, even if you do not live with them. Phone Centrelink on 13 27 17 or go to www.centrelink.gov.auLast updated November 2007