Page 3983 - Week 13 - Tuesday, 12 December 2006
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Caring for carers—progress report
Paper and statement by minister
MS GALLAGHER (Molonglo—Minister for Health, Minister for Disability and Community Services and Minister for Women): For the information of members, I present the following paper:
Caring for carers in the ACT—A plan for action 2004-2007—2005-06 progress report on implementation, incorporating carers legislation in the ACT—review—progress report on the implementation of the government response.
I ask for leave to make a statement in relation to the paper.
Leave granted.
MS GALLAGHER: I am pleased to table today the 2005-06 progress report on Caring for carers in the ACT—a plan for action 2004-07. This progress report covers the period 1 July 2005 to 30 June 2006 and demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the varying needs of carers and the people who receive care in the ACT.
On coming to government, we indicated our determination to develop a comprehensive policy for carers and investigate the need for specific carers legislation. We have honoured this commitment both in terms of initiatives delivered and in raising the profile of carers so their contribution to our community is better understood and acknowledged. To achieve our goals we have consulted widely and developed strong partnerships with carers, people who receive care, and service providers.
In November 2005, my colleague Minister Hargreaves tabled the first progress report on caring for carers. This policy aims to provide a basis for improving support for carers to enhance their health and wellbeing as well as that of the people they care for. The first progress report outlined new actions taken against the carers for caring action plan.
The key messages in the policy and action plan include the need for public recognition of the role and contribution made by unpaid, informal carers. There needs to be assurance that the person being cared for is provided with quality, adequate and accessible support and that carers are regarded as partners with government. The 2005-06 progress report provides an overview of the key initiatives being taken across the government. This report builds on and extends the work progressed since the first report and takes stock of current activities.
There has been extensive work carried out by the government in partnership with service providers, carers and care recipients in developing and implementing a range of programs and mechanisms to improve the lives of carers. The 2005-06 carer recognition grants enabled community organisations to respond to unmet needs identified by carers in the community. Projects funded this year focus on the provision of respite, practical assistance, skill development, training and information.
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