The dedication and contribution of volunteer careers will be celebrated next week –National Carers Week, October 15 to 21.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said Gippsland carers were unsung heroes who voluntarily devoted themselves to providing love and care that governments could never afford to pay for.
“Carers make an enormous contribution to our communities, providing care and support to family members or friends with a disability or illness,” Mr Chester said.
“Latest figures show the work of volunteer carers across Australia is valued at $60.3 billion annually – more than $1 billion per week.
“National Carers Week provides a chance to learn more about the work of carers and ways to help support their roles within each local community.”
Mr Chester said he met regularly with carers across Gippsland, often exhausted by the role of caring combined with the constant battle to make sure they were accessing the best possible educational, allied health and support services for their loved one.
“Local carers are inspirational, devoting their time to helping others and doing the job with such love and kindness,” Mr Chester said.
“It is important as a community that we stand together and show our support for the work of carers and the important role they play in our community.”
National Carers Week is an initiative of peak body Carers Australia with primary activities funded by the Australian Government.
A dedicated National Carers Week website has been established www.carersweek.com.au to acknowledging the outstanding work of carers.
The website features a ‘Thank You’ wall where messages can be left to show your appreciation for carers.
