New strategy to recognise and support Canberra’s carers


Released 25/07/2017

A partnership between the ACT Government, Carers ACT and democracyCo will develop a new ACT Carers Strategy – delivering on a key election commitment for the community sector.

Every day, almost 50,000 ACT carers provide vital support to people with a disability or who experience mental illness or have a chronic health condition.

In yesterday’s Budget, the ACT Government delivered on its commitment recognise the valuable contribution carers make to the ACT community by providing $200,000 to develop and implement the ACT Carers Strategy.

The Government is developing the Strategy in partnership with Carers ACT and democracyCo, and has already made an initial investment of $50,000 in this work.

The ACT Carers Strategy will improve support and recognition for Canberra’s carers, including young carers, older carers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers.

Supporting carers and ensuring they are able to maintain their caring role while achieving their own life goals an important part of building a stronger and more inclusive community.

Carers ACT recently commenced consultation on the experiences and views of a broad range of carers.

In line with the Government’s commitment to reforming community consultation and trialing new methods of engagement, democracyCo has been contracted to work with the Community Services Directorate and Carers ACT to help ensure we’re reaching those whose voices may not otherwise be heard.

The community consultation will enable the Government to hear the views of all stakeholders, particularly those of carers and people who receive care. Carers ACT will lead further consultation in June and July to support the development of the Strategy.

The delivery of an ACT Carers Strategy was a Labor election commitment and is included in the Parliamentary Agreement between Labor and the Greens.

- Statement ends -

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases


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