New reforms propose to recognise, value and support unpaid carers
Carers provide essential support to those in need, particularly seniors, ensuring many maintain a good quality of life.
Despite their significant contributions, unpaid carers often go unrecognised and unsupported. It is crucial to acknowledge their efforts and protect their rights.
This is why the new reforms proposed to value, support, and empower unpaid carers are a positive step toward change.
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs recently released a report on its inquiry into the recognition of unpaid carers in Australia.
The inquiry examined the difficulties faced by unpaid carers and proposed changes to the Carer Recognition Act 2010.
Ms Susan Templeman MP, Chair of the Committee, said, ‘Despite the best of intentions, the Act has not encouraged a cultural change in how public service agencies and their associated providers interact with and support carers.
‘This is because the Act is unenforceable, contains weak and vague statements without clear calls to action, and relies on a voluntary and inconsistent reporting system with little oversight or accountability.’
Key recommendations from the inquiry
The report makes 22 recommendations aimed at improving the recognition and support of unpaid carers in Australia. Here are the recommendations:
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Modernising the definition of carer: The definition of a carer should be more inclusive and consistent across all laws to better recognise the diversity of caring roles.
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Establishing carer rights: Legal advice should be sought to establish rights for carers, ensuring they are properly acknowledged and supported.
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Stronger obligations for public service agencies: Public service agencies should have clear responsibilities to support carers, following the principles of the Act.
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Improving access to support services: Carers need better access to support services like respite options and counselling through Carer Gateway. Special attention should be given to the health and well-being of First Nations and culturally diverse carers.
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Addressing financial challenges: Carers often face financial hardships. Flexible work arrangements, income tax credits for carers returning to work, and other financial incentives should be introduced to help.
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Community education campaign: A campaign should be launched to raise awareness about carers' rights, tackle gender stereotypes, reduce stigma, and promote supportive workplace cultures.
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Comprehensive data collection: More data is needed to inform policy decisions and track outcomes. Regular reviews of the Act and the National Carer Strategy every five years will ensure ongoing improvements.
The report and further information about the inquiry are available on the inquiry webpage.
Key takeaways
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Unpaid carers in Australia face challenges due to a lack of recognition and support.
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Reforming the Carer Recognition Act 2010 included recommendations to modernise the carer definition, establish rights, and improve support services.
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Addressing financial issues and implementing education campaigns are also essential.
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Comprehensive data collection and regular reviews will ensure progress.
Supporting unpaid carers is not just a policy decision; it is the right thing to do.
By implementing the recommendations from this inquiry, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for unpaid carers in Australia, ultimately improving the quality of care for those who need it most.
In the meantime, downsizing can significantly help you or someone you love manage the budget when hiring or planning to hire a carer.
Read our article on Downsizing in Australia: important tips to help with your move for more insights, and subscribe to our newsletter for news or updates on retirement property.
Background:
For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website: www.aph.gov.au/spla. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track this Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.
