Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said unpaid carers in his electorate would benefit from $85.6 million in additional funding for support services.

Mr Vasta said the new support services were in recognition of the important contribution unpaid carers were providing to their families, the community, and the nation.

“The Turnbull Government will provide a range of new services, including peer support, coaching, targeted financial support and crisis support, to target early-intervention and build carers’ skills,” Mr Vasta said.

“Getting help early can make a big difference to a carer’s life. It can help to reduce emotional or physical strain, assist carers to stay in work or study, take breaks from caring responsibilities, and help plan for the future. We owe a big thanks to our unpaid carers, who make significant sacrifices to support the most vulnerable in our community.”

From October 2018, carers will be able to access new supports and services through the Australian Government’s Carer Gateway website, including peer support, counselling, coaching, and educational resources.

From September 2019, the Australian Government will establish a network of Regional Delivery Partners to help carers access a range of  local services such as needs assessments, targeted financial support, information and advice, tailored counselling and coaching, and crisis support where required. 

The new services will be funded by a $250,000 family income test threshold to the Carer Allowance payment.

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan said around 99 per cent of Carer Allowance recipients would have no change to their payment under the threshold.