Federal Election 2019

Carers Australia looks forward to engaging with the Morrison Government in relation to a number of policies and programs which we believe should be adjusted to improve the wellbeing and life prospects for carers.

We were very pleased that the government committed an additional $84.3 million in the Federal budget to the new, national carer support services model which is to be introduced in October. We believe that the new model has the capacity to improve equitable access to such services, but it must be adequately funded to do so.

However, there a number of other issues which still need to be addressed.

These include improving access to much needed respite opportunities for both carers of the aged and of people of all ages with disabilities and chronic illness. They also include the need to provide carers seeking to re-enter the workforce, often after many years of caring at home, with more intensive support and consideration than many currently receive when they access government-funded employment services. They also need improved, timely support when trying to access financial support through Centrelink.

In addition to these carer-specific matters, we will continue to advocate for systemic changes to aged and disability care which will improve services for those they care for.

 
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Integrated Carer Support Services

The Department of Social Services has published a range of information on the upcoming Integrated Carer Support Services model, set to become the chief means by which unpaid carers can receive federally funded services and supports.

New online supports will be available as well as a new phone-based counselling service from July, with carer-specific supports and services available from September via a network of Carer Gateway service providers who can work with you to plan and access tailored services.

These changes do not affect other carer services delivered through My Aged Care, the National Disability Insurance Scheme or state and territory governments.

 
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Join Carers Australia's Peer Support Network!

Carers Australia is calling on carers who have experience with the NDIS to join our new Peer Support Network.

The Peer Support Network is a free and anonymous online platform that puts carers in touch with a fellow carer who already has experience navigating the NDIS on behalf of the person they care for. Carers will be able to discuss their lived experiences with the NDIS either by telephone, Skype video of Skype messenger.

If you have experience in helping the person you care for navigate the NDIS, you could help carers new to the Scheme by becoming a Peer Partner and sharing your knowledge, support and stories. Head to the Peer Support Network to become a Peer Partner today!

 
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NDIS National Day of Action

Carers Australia CEO Ara Cresswell attended the Every Australian Counts National Day of Action in Hobart earlier this month.

Hundreds of people with disability, their families, carers and service providers rallied around the country to ensure the NDIS delivers the best results for people with disabilities.

The event featured Shadow Minister for Disability and Carers, Carol Brown, and Independent Member for Denison, Andrew Wilkie, as speakers.

 
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Your Story Matters 2019

The Your Story Matters 2019 campaign has come to a close. Young carers across Australia shared their experiences to raise awareness of their community and the challenges they face.

Head to the Young Carers Network to read their stories, or submit your own. It’s also a great place to find resources and information for young carers.

 
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MedAdvisor app available for carers

MedAdvisor has produced a free, easy-to-use app to help manage your own medications or those of the person you care for. Its ‘Carer Mode’ can help carers simplify what is often a complex, time-consuming and stressful task.

Carers Australia does not actively endorse this or any product, nor are we paid to do so. Consumers are free to make their own choices.

 
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Dementia rate falling in older Australians

A new study, published in The Journal of Gerontology Medical Sciences, has found Australia’s dementia rates have fallen amongst those accessing Aged Care services. Researchers now believe there could be a need to reassess current estimates of the disease.

Although the country’s ageing population has meant overall number of people with dementia is set to increase, the study of 188,846 older people receiving home care services found the prevalence of dementia fell from 26 per cent in 2005 to 21 per cent in 2014.

Researchers believe public health measures, changing lifestyles, higher education rates and a decline in smoking are all contributing factors to the drop in the rate of dementia.

 
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