A new premises opened by the State Government today will be a central hub of support and advocacy for Western Australia's almost 250,000 carers.
Communities Minister Sue Ellery said the Government had provided more than $3.3million towards the Carers Centre in Lord Street, East Perth, in recognition of the valuable contribution carers made to the community.
"In WA, about one in eight people care for another person who has a disability, chronic illness, mental illness or who is frail aged," Ms Ellery said.
"Caring can affect people in many significant ways - financially, socially and emotionally. It can also have a big impact on life decisions such as work, careers, whether to have children and relocating to another city or town.
"The Carpenter Government is dedicated to improving the lives of carers in WA and has contributed $3million in Lotterywest funding and $350,000 from the Department for Communities to establish this important new centre.
"The Carers Centre will support the work of carers by providing office accommodation for the peak non-Government carer organisation Carers WA, as well as the mental health support group ARAFMI and Partners of Veterans."
The centre would also house:
· 'hot desks' for occasional use by other carer organisations operating out of houses or other temporary accommodation;
· meeting and training rooms;
· a book cafe and library; and
· a designated area for young carers.
The Minister said that WA was the first State in Australia to introduce legislation specifically recognising carers.
"I am very proud of WA's record on recognising and providing practical support to carers," she said.
"We have created a dedicated office for carers and seniors within the new Department for Communities and the office has a very important relationship with Carers WA and ARAFMI.
"The office supports both organisations to provide services to carers and to educate and inform professionals and other staff who work alongside carers.
"The Department for Communities also contributes $480,000 a year towards Carers WA's 24-hour counselling helpline. It also funds the Carers Health Awareness Retreats, which give carers the opportunity to take a break and meet other carers."
The opening of the Carer Centre today featured an exhibition of art and craft produced by carers throughout WA.
Minister's office - 9213 7150
