Carers miss out on more than money
New research by the Australia Institute reveals 115,632 Carers are missing out on $302 million in government assistance by not accessing the Carers Payment available through Centrelink .
“These findings point to the disadvantage and struggle endured by many who are caring for those with a disability, mental health issues or who are frail and aged,” says Peter Kell, CEO of ANGLICARE Sydney.
The Australia Institute report highlights the need for government to better inform carers of their entitlements and to simplify the system of benefits so that it becomes easier to navigate.
“The Government needs to ensure that those most in need have fair access to support payments,” says Peter Kell.
“However it is not just a question of entitlements and benefits – it is also an issue of being able to access services.
“Our own research indicates that ageing carers, for example, express significant need for support services but fail to access them at appropriate levels.
“This is also true for carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are seriously under-represented in Government-funded disability services.
"This may well reflect literacy issues and lack of knowledge of the service system as well as a perceived stigma in accessing such support."
According to Mr Kell governments have a responsibility to get it right when it comes to providing flexible, targeted and effective assistance to carers and people with a disability.
“Case management, case coordination and increasing access to respite and other relevant services, would also increase engagement with the financial and social supports available.
"The Institute’s timely report has highlighted that promoting the service system and providing easily accessible information are key for both carers and people with a disability.
“It is the government’s responsibility to ensure that all carers and people with a disability are treated fairly: both in terms of entitlements as well as service support," says Mr Kell.
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