The Albanese Labor Government is continuing its commitment to better support the three million unpaid carers in Australia, with consultation on a discussion paper about the new National Carer Strategy open today.
The discussion paper is a key part of ensuring the Strategy is responsive to the needs of carers, and to provide the foundations for an Australian community where all carers are recognised, valued and empowered.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said consultation on the discussion paper would give people the opportunity to engage on a series of questions regarding key priorities, challenges, and solutions for Australia's carers.
"We want to hear from unpaid carers, former carers and the support sector about their experiences and how we can better support them both in their caring role and other aspects of their lives," Minister Rishworth said.
"We're also holding a series of face-to-face consultations around the country, including in metropolitan, regional and remote locations to ensure the Strategy reflects the diverse experiences of all carers."
The Strategy will provide a framework for coordination of policy across Commonwealth portfolios including aged care, disability, veterans' affairs, and mental health.
The Government is committed to the delivery of a National Carer Strategy, an election commitment, by the end of the year.
The Strategy would provide the vision, principles, governance and some immediate actions, with a roadmap to delivering and implementing further action plans over the life of the Strategy.
"Earlier this year, I appointed a National Carer Strategy Advisory Committee, which includes members from the carer community and sector representatives to advise on the development of the National Carer Strategy," Minister Rishworth said.
"We'll be working closely with the Carer Advisory Committee and the broader community to establish a coherent national agenda for improving the lives of our unpaid carers."
"We need to ensure supports for carers are appropriately designed and prioritised, enabling them to better balance their caring role with all aspects of their lives, such as work, study and social participation."
Carers who wish to contribute but may not have the time to submit a formal submission can do so by answering a series of short questions online on issues that are most relevant and important to them.
Public consultation on the discussion paper is now open on DSS Engage and will close on 13 September 2024.
