The recently passed Carer's Recognition Bill, while acknowledging the importance of the 750,000 carers in NSW fell short of giving carers the necessary rights to service they require to enhance their quality of life, the NSW Greens told a summit for carers held at NSW Parliament House.
“The Government’s Bill was a small first step for NSW to recognise carers, but must be followed up by a scheme such as a National Disability Insurance Scheme,” said Ian Cohen, Greens MLC today.
“The Carers Recognition Bill, which passed Parliament last week highlighted the fact that carers deliver massive savings to our economy and society - to the tune of $10 billion each year.
“However we are still confronted with the fact there are a significant number of people caring for parents and other family members who are losing their right to a normal life and shouldering tremendous responsibilities all at little or no cost to the taxpayers of NSW.
“If the people for whom family-carers provide support received timely and appropriate services it follows that the stress and distress of family-carers would be greatly diminished.
”For decades leadership on the issues of family-carers and the people for whom they care has created a very large problem only because it was not addressed when it was a small one.
“Sadly, it is not uncommon for children to be carers for a relative, often having to take time off school to deal with family issues.
“It is unacceptable that young people in our society are foregoing their normal childhood to act as carers. The role of young people as carers must be addressed to enable them to remain with their family and to access a normal, healthy childhood.
“Other issues raised at today’s conference included the problems experienced by carers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, carers who do not recognise themselves as carers, carers with mental and physical problems and widows and single mothers caring for disabled children.
“We also need to promote the concept of voluntary caring where people have the right to put up their hands and say they are not capable of further voluntary caring. Carers are suffering physically debilitating conditions during a lifetime of care effort.
“A National Disability Insurance Scheme would see great advancements for people with disabilities and carers alike, allowing them to achieve a more fulfilling life. We also must allow for other members of the community to share the responsibility to care for the most vulnerable in our society,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
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