New 10-year National Carer Strategy launched in Australia to increase support for 3 million unpaid carers with skills training.
Carer Support: National Strategy Boosts Vital Aid
Australia’s three million unpaid carers, who dedicate an estimated 2.2 billion hours annually to supporting those in need, are set to receive enhanced support through a new 10-year National Carer Strategy. The strategy, unveiled by the Australian Government and Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth, aims to address the high risk of poor wellbeing and health experienced by carers, as highlighted in the 2023 Carer Wellbeing Survey.
The Benevolent Society, which delivers the Carer Gateway service for metropolitan Sydney, joined other organisations, including Carers SA, Wellways Australia, and Merri Health, at the strategy’s launch. Ryan Woodward, Director of Ageing, Carers and National Support Centre at The Benevolent Society, emphasised the importance of accessible support. “Carers often balance responsibilities and commitments alongside the support they deliver to loved ones. Burnout, fatigue and poor wellbeing are issues that carers may face,” he said. “This is especially true when the lines between personal time and time spent as carers blur. Providing access to the right support is key to addressing this.”
Carer Gateway, the government’s national carer hub, provides a range of services for carers of all ages, including young carers under 25. These services are designed to prevent burnout and fatigue, offering peer support workshops, tailored support packages, counselling, coaching, online skills courses, and access to emergency respite.
A key component of the new strategy is the increase of 10,000 phone counselling sessions per year through Carer Gateway, supporting an additional 1,600 carers annually. “The new National Carer Strategy is an important step to delivering this support for carers,” Woodward stated.
The strategy also aims to extend the hours of the Carer Gateway support service, providing carers with more flexible access to assistance. Furthermore, it will identify culturally safe in-person and online training opportunities to equip carers with the necessary knowledge and skills.
“The skillset carers need to continue carrying out their duties can change quickly if their circumstances change,” Woodward explained. “They may need to learn first aid skills like wound care, medication management, and how to operate devices that help with the mobility of those they care for.” He added, “It’s very encouraging to see the new strategy commit to opening opportunities for this training and provide additional information on relevant skills pathways for carers. We’re looking forward to seeing how this is formalised, and any ways that Carer Gateway can be part of this support.”
The government’s commitment to providing accessible and comprehensive support for carers underscores the vital role they play in Australian society. By increasing counselling sessions, extending service hours, and providing targeted training, the new National Carer Strategy aims to alleviate the pressures faced by carers and improve their overall wellbeing. This investment recognises the immense contribution of unpaid carers and ensures they have the resources they need to continue their invaluable work.
Also read: $500K in grants are available for initiatives to support carers
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