Minister gives vote of thanks during Carers Week

16/10/2016 6:00 AM

• Liberal National Government will provide $1 million in funding to support carers in 2016-17
• Carers Week runs from October 16 to 22, 2016 

Community Services Minister Paul Miles opened Carers Week by paying tribute to Western Australia's 320,000 carers, whose contribution to the community often goes unrecognised.

"More than one in eight people in WA is a carer, providing personal care, support and assistance to another person needing assistance with daily life," Mr Miles said.

"They come from all walks of life - young or old, male or female, looking after an elderly relative, a person living with disability or a young person.

"The only thing they have in common is the incredible amount of dedication and care they give to others - something that is truly worth remembering during Carers Week 2016."

The Liberal National Government supports carers with more than $831,000 in 2016-17 for support programs delivered through Carers WA, and more than $203,000 for the Grandcarers Support Scheme.

"Earlier this year, the State Government launched the WA Carers Strategy as a guide to government agencies, service providers and the community, to support greater recognition of carers and their needs," the Minister said.

"The launch also saw the establishment of an online carers directory which allows carers to easily access information on the services and support available to them."

On Wednesday, Mr Miles will attend a Carers WA lunch to show his support for the work of the organisation in representing the interests of carers throughout the State.

Fact File

• Carers Week is a national awareness-raising week held annually in the third week of October
• For more information on Carers Week WA, visit http://www.carerswa.asn.au  
• The WA Carers Strategy is available at https://www.dlgc.wa.gov.au/Publications/Pages/WA-Carers-Strategy.aspx