The Liberal Government recognises the important role of the more than 73,000 carers in Tasmania.
It was a pleasure to today launch Carers Week, which is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the role carers play in the community and the support and services available to assist them.
Tasmania has a greater number of carers per capita than any other Australian state or territory.
With a rapidly ageing population and a trend towards care in the community, the role of carers is becoming increasingly important.
Carers report that caring for their loved ones can be rewarding and satisfying, however there can be a personal, financial and physical toll.
Carers living in regional and rural areas are more likely to experience greater financial hardship and have greater difficulty accessing services than carers in major cities.
It is important to recognise and understand carers’ needs and provide appropriate support in order to sustain home-based care.
The Liberal Government is committed to the Tasmanian Carer Policy, which is helping to raise awareness of the role of carers, promotes a better understanding of the issues faced by carers and provides the framework necessary for government to provide support and services for them.
We are also investing $50,000 each year to support the Tasmanian Carers Advisory Council, which is helping to implement the policy and give carers a united voice.
I thank the many thousands of Tasmanian carers for the comfort, encouragement and reassurance they give to those they care for.
Will Hodgman, Premier
