Carers Australia have released the following:
Carers Australia welcomes National Carers Recognition legislation
Carers Australia welcomes the tabling of the National Carer Recognition Bill in Parliament today as an important first step in the introduction of a broader framework to support carers.
Carers Australia CEO Joan Hughes said “This legislation is an important landmark and one that we have been working towards for some time.
“We believe all carers should have the same rights and opportunities as other Australians to enjoy optimum health and social wellbeing and to participate in family, social and community life. It is encouraging that this is reflected under the principles of the legislation.
“While this legislation is a valuable progression, many carers still struggle financially, find themselves socially isolated and have difficulties accessing appropriate services. It is important that we continue to work towards the development and implementation of more practical measures and supports.”
The National Carer Recognition Bill consists of ten core principles that acknowledge the diversity of carers and identify key areas to be addressed in a national carers strategy including health and wellbeing, financial stability and employment and education participation.
Carers Australia is particularly pleased to see a principle devoted to young carers. “Young carers have now been identified as a group at risk of long-term disadvantage,” said Ms Hughes.
“We are very excited about the prospect of changes in policy and program areas that will address and support the needs of young carers.”
This legislation is just one part of a broader National Carer Recognition Framework announced by Jenny Macklin, Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, in October of last year.
Under this framework the government has committed to the establishment of national goals and a national carers strategy with the aim of improving policy and service delivery to better support carers.
It is important that this legislation is given a quick passage through both houses of Parliament so we can begin to work towards the realistic changes carers need. All political parties need to come together to ensure that this long awaited legislation is passed.
We look forward to working with the government to implement a nationally consistent and supportive framework which delivers tangible change for carers across Australia.
For media inquiries contact Edward Allpress on 02 6122 9917 or 043 4805 194
CARER RECOGNITION BILL 2010 (FED)
Second reading speech by the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, introducing the legislation.
The Bill is available here.
The Explanatory Memorandum is available here.
