As National Carers Week 2024 approaches from Sunday, 13 October to Saturday, 19 October, the nation turns its attention to the vital contributions of unpaid carers.
The theme this year, “Millions of reasons to care,” honours the 2.65 million Australians who care for loved ones. However, many carers feel they remain under-recognised and underpaid for their efforts.
What’s happening?
Carer advocate George Helon is leading a petition to push for better recognition and financial support for carers. Helon urges the public to sign his petition at Change.org.
He highlighted the financial and emotional strain of caring for a loved one, saying, “Becoming a carer increases one’s financial, emotional and social vulnerability.”
He also criticised the government’s lack of adequate support, adding, “Would you work 24/7, 365 days a year for 46 cents an hour? Carers deserve the same respect, recognition, and remuneration given to paid support workers, who earn upwards of $24.10 an hour.”
Why it Matters?
Helon emphasised that carers sacrifice careers, income, and personal well-being to care for others.
Despite providing round-the-clock care, many carers only receive 46 cents an hour through government allowances.
Helon’s petition calls for carers to be treated with the respect and financial recognition they deserve, stressing the urgent need for systemic change.
By the Numbers:
– 2,476,306 carers in Australia (2021 Census)
– $77.9 billion–$126.2 billion: estimated annual cost of replacing unpaid carers’ work
– 306,985 Australians receiving Carer Payment ($3.41/hr), 646,720 receiving Carer Allowance (46 cents/hr) in March 2024
Zoom in
Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald will host a morning tea for the Darling Downs Warrior Carers Support Group (DDWCSG), a group that has been advocating for carers since 11 April 2019.
This local event is part of the broader effort to recognise the sacrifices carers make daily.
Zoom Out
At a national level, Helon’s petition continues to gather momentum, encouraging Australians to support the cause.
He said, “Please sign and share my petition with your family, friends, and contacts. After all, you never know when you might find yourself a carer or in urgent need of one.”
Local Impact
Carers faces similar challenges to those across the nation.
Helon’s advocacy seeks to ensure that local carers, many of whom have been working under immense pressure, receive the same respect and support as paid workers.
What to look for next
National Carers Week 2024 will continue to raise awareness, but the next step is ensuring ongoing support and recognition for carers.
