Wellways welcomes the Department of Social Service’s release of the National Carer Strategy today.
The Minister for Social Services, the Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP, shared the highly anticipated National Carer Strategy with distinguished guests and representatives of the media in Adelaide.
The Minister confirmed that the National Carer Strategy will provide a national framework to support Australia’s 3 million unpaid carers and that it will reflect the diversity of unpaid carers in its plan to support carer wellbeing and economic and social participation that will coordinate carer policy and how carers are supported across different sectors such as disability, aged care, mental health and veteran affairs.
The Minister acknowledged that carers are a diverse group of people with a variety of needs and experiences and their caring experiencing as unique.
“That’s why it was so important for us that the strategy was built with carers, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to participate in our consultation process and shape a strategy that will drive real and needed improvements in the lives of all Australia’s carers” Ms Rishworth said.
At the morning tea in her home state of South Australia, Minister Rishworth was accompanied by providers of the Carer Gateway, a national support service led by Wellways and its partners throughout Queensland and the New South Wales regions of South West Sydney and Nepean Blue Mountains.
A new era for carers
Wellways’ CEO Laura Collister attended the event and was very pleased to get a first-hand understanding of the newly released National Carer Strategy.
“The release of the National Carer Strategy not only formally recognises the immeasurable contribution of unpaid carers across the country but also marks a new era for carers and the support they receive to thrive in all aspects of their lives. This strategy is a road map, and the voices of the carer community have provided the directions needed to ensure we all stay on track. It’s an honour and privilege to represent Wellways and the carers we work with on this important day, and we are committed to working with the Department in the steps we take from here”, Ms Collister said.
Voices that lead to action
The new strategy comes with clear action plans informing service providers like Wellways of the opportunities for innovation, codesign, partnerships, and improvements. Director of Family and Carer Services, Rachael Lovelock, is excited to begin planning and implementing actions from the National Strategy.
“This strategy and its action plans are significant steps in guiding all our carer support services, including Wellways Carer Gateway. Knowing that these action plans directly address areas that will improve the lives of carers, and have been informed by the voices of carers, drives our commitment and dedication to bridging gaps, building new pathways and creating support that changes lives. We are ready to get started.” Ms Lovelock said.
The 10 year plan
The roadmap to better support is here, guided by the needs of diverse carers across Australia.
This strategy aims to create a supportive environment where carers are valued, can access timely and appropriate support, develop skills for their role, participate in education and work, maintain their wellbeing, and benefit from better understanding through improved data and research.
Wellways Family and Carer Services provide vital support to carers across Australia through a range of programs. In partnership with consortia members Little Dreamers, Dementia Australia, North and West Remote Health, and Selectability, Wellways delivers Carer Gateway services throughout Queensland and parts of New South Wales. In Victoria, Wellways also leads two Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centres, specifically designed to assist those caring for individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use issues, or psychological distress.
To find out more, visit our Families and Carers service page