Tasmania’s carers deserve better support

Tasmanian Labor

National Carers’ Week and Seniors’ Week in Tasmania are a timely reminder of the need to recognise the state’s unpaid carers.

Shadow Minister for Disability and Ageing Jo Siejka said as well as celebrating the contribution of our unpaid carers, we need to ensure their valuable work is properly recognised.

“More than 80,000 – or one in six – Tasmanians work as unpaid carers and, of these, 9,300 are aged under 25,” Ms Siejka said.

“Most of them don’t choose to become carers, and often have the role thrust upon them, but they provide an essential service in the community, offering support and friendship for people who are unable to independently undertake routine daily activities.

“Nationally, informal carers contribute 2.2 billion hours of care each year, valued at $77.9 billion, and we owe it to them to ensure they are recognised, valued and well supported.

“Labor has long called for a Carers Charter to support the vital work they do and the sacrifices they make, so it is pleasing to see the Liberals finally acting to enshrine recognition of carers in legislation.

“But it is crucial that the Liberals use their community consultations to listen to people, act on what is needed, and provide carers with real support, not just lip service.

“I thank our carers for the work they do and the contribution they make and I look forward to seeing them finally receive the recognition they deserve.”

Jo Siejka MLC

Shadow Minister for Disability and Ageing

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