- Celebrating the 320,000 WA carers who provide care for someone in their lives
- National Carers Week promotes recognition and awareness of the work of carers
- This year's celebrations align with 20thanniversary of the Carers Recognition Act 2004
The crucial work of 320,000 Western Australian unpaid carers is being recognised by the Cook Government and wider community as part of National Carers Week, which runs from 13-19 October.
National Carers Week raises community awareness among Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles, with more than three million people across the country providing care to someone in their lives.
Importantly, this year's celebration aligns with the 20th anniversary of the Carers Recognition Act 2004, which was passed by the Gallop Labor Government and received assent on October 28th, 2004.
The Act recognised the role of carers in law and established the Western Australian Carers Charter, which states carers must be treated with respect and included in the planning and delivery of services that impact on their role.
Events will be held throughout National Carers Week including morning teas, conferences, film screenings, webinars, art collaborations, prize giveaways, yoga sessions, and on-Country experiences.
The Cook Government, through Lotterywest WA, recently provided $62,500 to Carers WA to support community groups to host their events during National Carers Week. The funding will also support the Carers WA Conference, which is sponsored by the Department of Communities.
This funding is in addition to $1 million invested by the Cook Government towards ensuring carers have access to support services and programs.
As part of this year's celebrations, prominent WA buildings including Yagan Square, Mandurah Bridge, and Kununurra Court House will be lit up in aqua blue to highlight the importance of carers.
For more information across WA visitNational Carers Week | Carers WA
As stated by Community Services Minister Sabine Winton:
"National Carers Week provides us with an opportunity to express our gratitude for Western Australia's unpaid carers and the extraordinary work they do.
"Carers come from all walks of life and make a significant impact on the lives of those they care for.
"As Community Services Minister, I have had the opportunity to meet with many carers, who do an incredible job balancing their own responsibilities and lives, while still giving so much to help their loved ones.
"Young carers in particular often balance study commitments and their personal development with their caring roles.
"It's important that we recognise the unique needs of carers in our community. That's why the State Government has committed $1 million of funding to Carers WA to provide support services and programs for unpaid carers.
"I am also proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Carers Recognition Act in the same month as National Carers Week, with Western Australia being the first jurisdiction to recognise the special role of carers in law."
