Don’t Be Careless: Carers NSW Election Campaign
“There are approximately 750,000 unpaid family carers in this state and we will ensure that their voices are heard this election,” said chief executive officer of Carers New South Wales (NSW), Elena Katrakis, at the launch of their state election campaign.
“We’re speaking up, not only for the carers who do have a vote this election but also those who don’t. A 2003 survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates there are 90,200 young carers aged under 25 living in NSW.
“The message is simple. Carers NSW is calling out to politicians and voters, Don’t be Careless this election.
“The caring role impacts on education, employment, financial security, and health and social wellbeing. The Australian government’s Intergenerational Report 2010 flagged the ageing population has one of the country’s biggest challenges,” she said.
“It’s never been more important that we plan today for the needs of tomorrow and importantly, the needs of a growing population of carers.
“Anyone, anytime can become a carer, it’s important that we recognise the challenges faced by carers and implement appropriate strategies to help support them in their roles. All of us will be affected by caring at some point whether it be as carer or care recipient.”
There are five key issues that we want politicians and voters to consider this election.
- Better access to supported accommodation
- Providing flexible work options to enable carers to participate in the Workforce
- More funding for mental health in NSW
- Investment in Telehealthcare
- To build on the NSW Carers (Recognition) Act
More information is available at http://www.dontbecareless.org.au
