This week is National Carers Week, celebrating the 2.65 million Australians who provide care and support to friends and family around the country.
With unpaid carers providing 2.2 billion hours of care last year – worth around $78 billion – Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston thanked them for their “remarkable” efforts.
“Carers work quietly and lovingly without fanfare. They make an incredible contribution to the lives of many, as well as our broader communities.
“No two caring responsibilities are the same and we simply wouldn’t be the country we are without them,” she said.
Catholic Not-For-Profit organisation VMCH has highlighted its Carer Support program, which according to CEO Sonya Smart, provides support services to carers to help them relax.
“We have been hosting watercolour art classes, wardrobe organisation tips and tricks, along with educational resources such as NDIS Q&A sessions – all online.
“This has been a huge challenge, but still a very successful way of keeping our carers connected. Our Carer Support team does an exceptional job, especially in such difficult times, when face-to-face contact is so important for those who need a break from their incredibly busy lives,” she said.
National Carers Week is in its 29th year.
