The Liberal National Government is continuing to support Western Australia's estimated 320,000 carers with the awarding of a $1 million tender to Carers WA to provide a range of support services.
Community Services Minister Paul Miles today announced the tender, which represented a funding increase of more than 15 per cent to support carers and their needs.
"With more than one in eight people in WA providing unpaid personal care and support to others, the contribution carers make reduces dependence on paid care and relieves our health and community services," Mr Miles said.
"Since July 2011, funding to eligible community services has increased by an average of 32 per cent as part of the Liberal National Government's strategy to improve the sustainability of the not-for-profit sector.
"This additional $150,000 in funding for carers will strengthen our efforts to ensure they receive the same life opportunities as all West Australians and are able to participate fully in the community."
Services offered through Carers WA will include counselling and training, social support, advice and information services, respite, employment engagement activities, a young carers program and a community education program.
"These services will help build a carer's capacity to maintain a balance between their caring responsibilities, wellbeing and pursuit of life goals," the Minister said.
The programs will be made as accessible as possible for carers across WA, via an online and telephone service, physical locations in areas of high population and partnerships with a range of regional stakeholders and periodic regional visits by Carers WA staff.
Fact File
In 2015, the Department of Local Government and Communities partnered with the Carers Advisory Council and Carers WA to develop the WA Carers Strategy
The strategy provides guidance for government agencies and community service providers to focus their efforts on better support and recognition of carers
Minister's office - 6552 6600
