Sutherland Shire carers give minister John Ajaka their ideas

The meeting was part of a review of the NSW Carer Recognition Act.

Sutherland Shire Carer Support Service hosted the meeting at Stapleton Avenue Community Centre.

Carers were able to speak directly to the minister about how recognition of their role could be improved and strengthened in workplaces, government departments and through community awareness.

Participants included shire author and advocate Cheryl Koenig, who was chosen as the state’s 2009 Woman of the Year because of her role as a carer.

Ms Koenig is a member of the NSW Carers Advisory Council, which was established under the Carer Recognition Act to advance the interests of carers and advise the government.

Speaking after the meeting, Ms Koenig said carers had “come a long way” in gaining community recognition of their role in caring for loved ones.

“This is important because it’s the main job we do, and recognition is essential for self esteem,” she said.

”However, what we don’t have much of at this stage is recognition of the economic contribution by carers, which saves governments billions of dollars.

“Also, there needs to be more respect for, and recognition of, our special knowledge and unique relationship with our loved ones.

“At present, a carer can turn up at a hospital with the person they are caring for and be pushed to one side, even though we are the people who know our loved ones best.”

Sutherland Shire Carer Support Service, which offers information, emotional support, counselling, advocacy, referrals and support groups for carers, said more than 20,000 shire residents were carers.

They provide regular unpaid support to a family member or friend with a disability, mental illness, chronic illness or dementia, or is frail aged.

The Department of Family and Community Services is seeking feedback on a discussion paper, which is another element  of the review.

Visit: haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/consultations