Inquiry into the recognition of unpaid carers

From 13 June 2023 the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs conducted an inquiry into the recognition of unpaid carers. This followed a referral from the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP.

Carers make significant contributions to the economy and society. This comes at a personal cost. Caring responsibilities can directly affect carers’ physical, mental and financial wellbeing. The committee examined the challenges faced by unpaid carers and options for reforming the Carer Recognition Act 2010 (Cth).

The committee held public hearings in Canberra with video and audio broadcasts across Australia. 

The stakeholders it consulted included:

  • individual unpaid carers
  • carer representatives and advocacy organisations
  • community service providers
  • academic research groups
  • government departments. 

A total of 143 submissions were received.

The committee tabled its report Recognising, valuing and supporting unpaid carers(Opens in a new tab/window) on 27 March 2024. It made 22 recommendations.
 

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DSS3294 | Permalink: www.dss.gov.au/node/3294