No. 31
2010-11 Budget recognises 
vital role of carers

The work of Canberra’s carers has been recognised in the 2010-11 ACT Budget with almost $2.164 million in funding over four years for support services.

The 2010-11 Budget commits $424,000 over four years to establish a Carers Advocacy Service and $1.740 million over four years to continue the Older Carers Respite Program.

ACT Minister for Housing and Community Services, Joy Burch, said the funding recognised the valued role of carers in the ACT community.

“The advocacy service will enable carers to make better use of existing services and programs by providing a ‘front door’ and reducing red tape,” Ms Burch said.

“It will respond to the frustrations carers often face in trying to find out the services and programs they can access to better support their caring role.” 

The Minister said the advocacy service would give carers access to information from one central point about respite care, financial and legal assistance, as well as education, employment and community activities that they could access.

“The establishment of the Carers Advocacy Service that streamlines information about and access to services meets a direct request from carers in the ACT,” 
Ms Burch said.

Meanwhile, the Older Carers Respite Program, an ACT-Commonwealth Government funded service, provides priority respite of up to four weeks a year for carers who are aged 65 years or older and caring for a child with a disability.

The $1.740 million in funding will allow for the purchase of 14,000 hours of respite support over four years to provide relief to Canberra carers.  

“The ACT Government recognises the important role of carers in our community and is pleased to provide practical measures to better recognise and support the care relationships,” Ms Burch said.

“The funding for both Budget initiatives aligns with the ACT Government’s commitment to assist the vulnerable people in our community.

“Through this Budget, the Government is investing in the services most needed by our community and will continue to support those most vulnerable in society.”

4 May 2010
Media Contact: 	Victor Violante 		6205 0145 (w)	0421 846 201 (m)
			victor.violante@act.gov.au