Dementia Australia welcomes the Australian Government’s commitment to deliver a range of initiatives to support carers this National Carers Week, 15-23 October.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said the initiatives are important to recognise and support carers.

“In 2023, it is estimated that more than 400,000 people living with dementia and unpaid carers are invaluable to ensuring people living with dementia can maintain their quality of life,” Ms McCabe said.

“While many carers tell us it can be a rewarding experience, it can also come with many challenges that change over time. That is why it is so important for carers to have access to appropriate support.”

The Government announced:

• It will deliver a National Carer Strategy, investing $3.8 million through to 2025-26 to develop a national agenda.
• Launch the Carer Inclusive Workplace Initiative to ensure carers are better supported to participate in the workforce.
• Extend Carer Gateway for two years to ensure carers have access to supports they need.

Ms McCabe acknowledged the Albanese Government for this investment which has the potential to have a significant impact on carers of people living with dementia.

“Dementia Australia looks forward to hearing more about the development of the National Carer Strategy and supporting carers of people living with dementia to participate in the consultation process,” Ms McCabe said.

“The Carer Inclusive Workplace Initiative is important to enable carers of people living with dementia to remain in or re-enter the workforce – this can be challenging for carers for many reasons including lack of employer education, awareness, and understanding of caring responsibilities and lack of flexibility in the role or workplace.

“And the two-year extension to Carer Gateway is essential to ensure carers can access support services to maintain their physical and emotional wellbeing, and respite services so they receive regular breaks from their caring role.

“I encourage all carers to call the National Dementia Helpline at any time of the day or night, on 1800 100 500. Dementia Australia supports everyone impacted by dementia or mild cognitive impairment, everywhere across Australia, and can direct carers to life-changing support.”