Tasmanian aid for grandparents and other relatives caring for children

Tasmanian Health and Human Services Minister, Lara Giddings, has launched a new $1.2 million assistance package for Tasmanian grandparents and other relatives caring for children outside the State’s Child Protection System.

“The Relative Care Assistance Program recognises the invaluable work of grandparents and other relatives, such as uncles and aunts, who provide primary care for children when families break down,” Ms Giddings said.

“Grandparents don’t ask for this responsibility and it can be a challenge for them physically, emotionally and financially.

“Although the Australian Government is primarily responsible for income support to families, the State Government has allocated $1.2 million over four years to this program to help ease the burden grandparents and other relative carers face.”

Ms Giddings said $150,000 was allocated in 2006-07 and $350,000 in subsequent years.

“Following extensive regional consultation, this year’s funding will provide:
· A one-off payment of $400 per child in lieu of the establishment allowance made to existing recipients of the Relatives Allowance.
· A one-off establishment allowance of $400 for those eligible for the existing Relatives Allowance.
· An increase in the Christmas Allowance to existing Relatives Allowance recipients from $30 to $75 per child – backdated to Christmas 2006.
· The establishment of a small contingency fund, to help relative carers meet exceptional or ad hoc costs.
· The availability of brokerage money to conduct camps for relative care families for respite and support purposes.

“In addition to the establishment and Christmas allowance changes, we are discussing with grandparents the creation of a quarterly allowance, paid in advance to replace the old Relatives Allowance.

“This allowance would provide more certainty and greater financial support to grandparents when they need it,” Ms Giddings said.