In 2020, the replacement cost of care in Australia was estimated at a staggering $77.9 billion, reflecting the vast value of your role that often remains unrecognised, not to mention the social, emotional, and financial costs associated with being a carer.
Ahead of the 2025 federal election, we are calling for immediate action.Together with Carers Australia, we urge all political parties and candidates to commit to real solutions that will enhance carers’ financial security, employment opportunities, and access to support.
Carers Australia is calling on all political parties and candidates to publicly support a modest investment of $586.75 million in 2025, including:
- Cost-of-living support for carers: A permanent 15% boost to the Carer Allowance and a one-off 50% increase to the Carer Supplement to address rising living costs.
- Superannuation for carers: Superannuation contributions for carers receiving the Carer Payment, ensuring long-term financial security and reducing future reliance on the Age Pension.
- Expanding the Young Carer Bursary: Expansion of the Young Carer Bursary to assist young carers with their education and living expenses, increasing the number of bursaries from 1,592 to 3,500 and raising the payment to $4,500 per recipient.
- Carer-inclusive workplaces: Expansion of the Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative, allowing more carers to remain in employment while meeting their caring responsibilities.
- Carer recognition right from the start: Training health professionals to identify and refer carers to essential supports at the point they become carers.
A fairer Australia starts with recognising, valuing, and supporting those who care.
For more information visit www.carersaustralia.com.au/federal-election-carers-cant-quit
