The Federal Government is today calling for applications from local organisations to deliver a campaign that promotes the needs and rights of Australian carers, and deliver a series of festivals for young carers recognising their contribution.
Harry Jenkins MP, Federal Member for Scullin today said that local organisations had the opportunity to drive and develop the $1.6 million National Carer Awareness Campaign and the $1 million Young Carer Festivals initiatives.
"At some point in time we have all come into contact with a carer, young or old, who is providing unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who have a disability, mental or terminal illness or who are frail aged," Mr Jenkins said.
"Carers are the unsung heroes of our health system, and we should be doing all that we can to support, encourage and guide them in the important role that they play in our community.
The successful organisation will develop a campaign that promotes the range of benefits, services and support available to carers and encourages people who see themselves first as parents, partners, a child or young person, to recognise themselves as carers and access support that can help them in their caring role.
The campaign will also aim to educate health and community care professionals about the role carers can play in developing and delivering treatment plans and education professionals about recognising and supporting young carers.
Applications are also being sought to deliver the Young Carer Festivals initiative. The successful organisation will develop and run Young Carer Festivals- one in each state and territory- for young carers aged between 5 and 25 years.
"These festivals aim to bring young carers together to celebrate and recognise their contribution by providing an opportunity to participate, socialise and build networks with their peers in a safe and supportive environment," Mr Jenkins said.
"It will also help reduce the impact of social isolation that young carers can experience.
Organisations interested in delivering the National Carer Awareness Campaign and/or the Young Carer Festivals can visit www.fahcsia.gov.au for more information.