Following the establishment of carer legislation on both national and state levels in 2010, there has been continued bipartisan goodwill to improve the welfare of carers throughout 2011.
There was an exciting start to the year with the NSW state election. The Carers NSW Don’t be careless election campaign was a tremendous success, providing a platform for carers’ voices to be heard by all candidates. We also started utilising the connectivity of social media during the election campaign, and now communicate regularly with carers and other stakeholders through Facebook and Twitter (please follow us if you haven't already).
The Commonwealth Government’s focus has been on reforming the health and disability systems, with carers playing a key role in consultations. This year saw the release of the National Carer Strategy, and the Productivity Commission’s Caring for Older Australians and Disability Care and Support reports. Prime Minister Julia Gillard has given her government’s commitment towards establishing a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), with Federal Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, recently being given additional responsibility as the Minister for Disability Reform. The appointment was strongly supported by many carer and disability organisations, including Carers NSW.
The year ended on a high with the NSW Carer Awards 2011 and National Carers Week 2011. The main NSW Carer Awards ceremony was held at NSW Parliament House to announce the Carer Ambassador Awards and the NSW Carer of the Year. Ceremonies were also held across the state through local councils to honour 143 local carer award recipients. National Carers Week 2011 was a great success with the announcement of NSW Carer Award recipients, Carers Day Out, and over 340 local carer events held across NSW. Carers Day Out was held in Martin Place, Sydney, and was opened by the NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell, Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, and NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance.
It certainly has been a eventful and rewarding year for carers. On behalf of Carers NSW, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and look forward to an even better year in 2012. I hope you enjoy reading the sixth and final e-bulletin for 2011.
News Visit Carers NSW website for the
latest news, comment, training and events at Carers NSW and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Also see the NSW Carers Action Plan 2007–2012 which commits NSW Government agencies to recognise, respect and value the role of carers in the community.
News - National Changes to the Commonwealth Government Ministry and Cabinet
Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced changes to the Ministry and the Cabinet. Read more.
Last chance to complete the Mental Health Carers Survey 2011-12 Calling all carers of people with mental illness! This is your last chance to complete the Mental Health Carers Survey 2011-12 by the Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA). The online survey will remain open until Christmas Day (25 December 2011). The survey is part of a cumulative research project into the lives of carers of people with mental illness. The findings are published and widely distributed to politicians, government departments, carers, consumers, workers, clinicians and bureaucrats. Go to the online survey.
Survey for health professionals working with mental health consumers and carers of people with mental illness The Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) is seeking the views and comments of health professionals working with mental health consumers and carers of people with mental illness on how they involve consumers and carers in treatment decision making; the unique barriers to implementing shared decision making in day-to-day work practices; and any information or resource gaps for mental health professionals who would like to improve their capacity to employ shared decision making principles in their day-to-day work practices. Go to the online survey.
Black Dog Institute Writing Competition focuses on carers
The latest Black Dog Institute Writing Competition, Walking the Tightrope – Caring for Someone with Depression or Bipolar Disorder, throws the spotlight on the powerful stories that come from carers of people with depression or bipolar disorder, with a particular focus on the questions of what worked best, what didn’t work and what was learnt? The closing date for receipt of entries is 31 January 2012. Read the media release.
Appointment of Mental Health Commissioners
Federal Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has announced the appointment of the Mental Health Commissioners to Australia’s first National Mental Health Commission. These eight new Commissioners join the newly formed Mental Health Commission under the Chairmanship of Professor Allan Fels. Download the media release.
New Medicare Locals to be operational in 2012 There are already 19 Medicare Locals operating around the country. The Commonwealth Government has announced a further 38 new Medicare Locals. Of these, 18 will commence establishment and operational activities from 1 January 2012 and the remaining Medicare Locals will commence from 1 July 2012. Read more.
Commonwealth Government supports pay equality
Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that the Commonwealth Government was prepared to provide over $2 billion to deliver a historic pay rise to 150,000 of Australia’s lowest paid workers in the social and community services sector. Read the media release.
The TEA Room opens for Australian teenagers with epilepsy
Australia's first social networking site for teenagers with epilepsy, has been launched in Brisbane. The TEA Room (Teenage Epilepsy Agenda) is a secure, friendly online space for 13 to 19 year olds with epilepsy. They can live in any state, and will be able to interact with each other as well as young people in Scotland. Scottish teenagers with epilepsy have spent the past year developing a strong community of friends through the first TEA Room, established by the Scottish Epilepsy Initiative. The Australian site is a pilot project - the first outside Scotland. If it proves successful, the chat room concept will be extended to teenagers with epilepsy living in other English-speaking countries. Read the media release.
10th biennial report on national welfare services and statistics released Australia's welfare 2011 is the 10th biennial welfare report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). It is the most comprehensive and authoritative source of national information on welfare services in Australia. Topics include children and young people, disability and disability services, ageing and aged care, informal carers, homelessness, housing assistance, community services workforce, welfare expenditure, and indicators of Australia's welfare. Read the report.
Final report on economic potential of senior Australians released Federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, welcomed the release of the third and final report, Realising the economic potential of senior Australians: turning grey into gold, from the Advisory Panel on the Economic Potential of Senior Australians. Today's senior Australians are better placed than earlier generations to live longer healthier lives. The nation is now well positioned to benefit from advances in health care, improved education opportunities and greater financial security. The Commonwealth Government welcomes the recommendations of the Advisory Panel which go toward addressing how individuals, industry and governments can position Australia to benefit from a larger, more active population of seniors. Read the media release or go to the website to view all three reports.
ABS releases Disability and Long Term Health Conditions data
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Disability and Long Term Health Conditions, 2009. The publication presents a suite of data cubes examining the relationship between disability and long term health conditions. The tables include broad level information on the numbers of people with long term health conditions in each of the states (ACT and NT are not included). They also include information on some of the most common long term health conditions, the degree to which these restrict people with disability and the causes underlying main conditions. Visit the website.
News - New
South Wales New online tool to assist carers of people with mental illness The new Carers NSW interactive online learning tool, Mental Health Foundations for Carers, has gone live! The tool includes carer video stories, references to the Carer Life Course and practical tools to support carers of people with mental illness. Go to the online learning tool.
Connecting Carers to IT outreach program
From November 2011 to June 2012, Carers NSW will be running workshops for carers to cover the skills needed to access the internet and to use email. The workshop is free. There are no pre-requisites and you don’t need to have a computer to apply. Carers NSW has an IT van and we will bring this service to you. See the flyer.
NSW Government response to Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report
Carers NSW welcomes the NSW Government’s support of the Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report recommendations. See the media release or visit the report webpage.
End of year message from Minister Constance
See the end of year message from NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, here.
Consultations with NSW communities on new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy
A series of consultation sessions will be held in January 2012 to help the NSW Government develop a new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy to enhance the lives of older residents. NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, said the consultations, which follow the Ageing Roundtable at Parliament House in September, will be held with peak ageing bodies, advocates and the wider community. A Summary Paper outlining the key findings from the Roundtable has also been released. Read the media release and see the consultation schedule.
Introduction of Mental Health Commission Bill in NSW Parliament
NSW Minister for Mental Health, Kevin Humphries, introduces the Mental Health Commission Bill 2011. Read the Hansard extract.
Historic court win for carer NSW carers for motor-accident victims have won a landmark legal victory, with a judge ruling they can claim compensation. Read the article.
Concerns over NSW motor accident compensation review
Members of the legal profession have questioned why the NSW Government has not taken greater measures in an internal review of the state's motor accident compensation system. Watch this video from the ABC program, 7.30 New South Wales.
Roundtable to maximise diversity in the workplace
The NSW Government will set up a Ministerial Roundtable on Workplace Diversity to further maximise the economic benefits of cultural diversity. The decision was announced by NSW Minister for Citizenship and Communities, Victor Dominello, at the presentation of the National Multicultural Marketing Awards. Read the media release.
New Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) is currently transitioning the former Mental Health Access Line to a new number that will continue to provide high level care by mental health professionals. The new Mental Health Line is a single point, state wide service that connects the people of NSW with appropriate care. It provides 24-hour mental health connection and referral services and is staffed by mental health professionals across NSW. Read the media release.
News - International Carers UK report on The Cost of Caring
Based on a survey of over 4,000 carers in the UK, this report sets out the consequences of financial pressures on carers’ health – as worries about their financial future take their own toll. Read the report.
UK study on new ideas to support carer health and wellbeing Research carried out by Circle (the Centre for International Research on Care, Labour and Equalities) at the University of Leeds studied the impact and effectiveness of 25 multi-agency projects funded by the UK Department of Health, set up to explore new ways of supporting some of England's most hard-pressed carers. Almost 19,000 carers participated and Circle found many carers really valued the extra help they received. The report, New Approaches to Supporting Carers' Health and Well-being: evidence from the National Carers' Strategy Demonstrator Sites Programme, highlights ideas that work to help carers stay well and healthy, to get a short break or chance to meet their own needs. For carers struggling to make ends meet, small investments in gym memberships, laptops or short holidays make a real difference, yet cost only a fraction of what needs to be spent if their care breaks down or cannot be sustained. Special health and wellbeing checks spotted many physical and mental conditions, including diabetes, depression and cancer, which – as carers often put their own needs second to those of others – were previously undiagnosed. When GPs or hospitals work together with social services and voluntary agencies in their area, support for carers can really improve at a comparatively small cost. Download the report.
Feature - National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) & 2011 National Disability Awards Prime Minister addresses the 2011 National Disability Awards
Prime Minister Julia Gillard discusses the 2011 National Disability Awards and National Disability Insurance Scheme. See the speech transcript.
New Federal Minister for Disability Reform
Federal Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, has welcomed the Prime Minister’s decision to place disability reform at the centre of the Commonwealth Government. Ms Macklin has been appointed to the new position of Federal Minister for Disability Reform, in addition to her responsibilities as Federal Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Senator Jan McLucas will continue her work as the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers. Read the media release.
2011 National Disability Awards recognise outstanding achievements Nine outstanding individuals and organisations were honoured at the 2011 National Disability Awards Ceremony for their work to improve the lives of people with disability. Read the media release.
New NDIS website launched The Commonwealth Government has launched a new website for the NDIS. Visit the website.
Designing a National Disability Insurance Scheme The Commonwealth Government has announced that a new agency will be established to lead the work in designing the launch of a NDIS. The agency will also oversee new projects to identify practical ways to prepare the disability sector and workforce, and people with disability, to move to new ways of delivering disability services. Read the media release.
Every Australian Counts addresses the National Press Club The Every Australian Counts campaign made an address at the National Press Club in Canberra on the 23 November 2011. See the videos of the stories of the presenters, Peter Darch, Dr Rhonda Galbally, and Dr Paul Brock. Download the speeches.
PwC report on NDIS, disability and productivity
A PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report has found Australians with a disability were half as likely to be employed as people without a disability. Alarmingly, almost half of those with a disability were living in or near poverty, making Australia the worst in the OECD. Read the report, and related articles in the Sydney Morning Herald and Flagpost.
Conferences
& events Carer Support Groups: a workshop for facilitators Carer Support Groups: A workshop for facilitators covers a broad range of topics and issues that relate to the role of a carer support group facilitator. This training is open tocarers and service providers who currently facilitate a carer support group or are interested in facilitating their own group When: 9 February, 22 February, 14 March, 4 April 2012 Where: Sydney, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, and Newcastle. Venues to be confirmed Details: Register online, see the flyer
Understanding and supporting carers
Carers NSW offers free training tailored for service providers from government and non government services. It is a half-day, interactive education session focusing on identifying who carers are, how the caring role impacts on them and how to support them. When: 15 February, 2 May 2012 Where: Carers NSW Sydney Office Details: Register online, see the flyer
Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing: Looking After Ourselves Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing: Looking After Ourselves workshop is a free one day workshop open to service providers and Aboriginal carers who work with or want to work with carers within the Aboriginal community. Based on a train the trainer model the workshop aims to enhance the capacity of service providers and Aboriginal carers in promoting carer health and wellbeing within the Aboriginal community. When: 23 February, 15 March, 22 March, 3 April 2012 Where: Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Central Coast, and Newcastle. Venues to be confirmed Details:Registeronline, see theflyer
Inclusive Community Education Program (ICEP) Various free ICEP courses for people with a disability. When: 28 January–5 April 2012 Where: Sydney Community College, Rozelle campus Detail: Flyer
Managing Challenging Behaviours Collaboratively
Dr. Steve Walker from Brief Therapy Solutions will be presenting the Managing Challenging Behaviours Collaboratively workshop. Each workshop involves up to eight consecutive sessions each session building on the previous session. Parents will learn about the influences that may affect the behavioural development of their children, such as temperament, genetics, the environment and parenting skills, as well as how the history of children’s experiences impact on their coping and attachment. When: 16 February–5 April 2012 (every Thursday for 8 weeks) Where: Narellan Health Centre, Narellan Detail: Flyer
From Outlaws towards Inclusion A conference on 10 years of challenges and progress in rights and human services for people with intellectual disability in contact with the criminal justice system. When: 17 February 2012 Where: University of NSW, Sydney Detail: Flyer
Publications Working in Person Centred Ways for NSW advocacy and information services
In 2010/11, Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC) made a commitment that advocacy and information providers would have the opportunity to examine the implications of person-centred approaches for their services. This resource book is designed for advocacy and information services in NSW to promote a greater understanding of person-centred approaches by their services, to assist them to examine their work with service providers, and to prompt reflection on the implications for their work. Read the document.
Updated edition of Discrimination Toolkit released
The fully revised and updated edition of the Discrimination Toolkit has been released. It is a joint publication of Legal Aid NSW, Kingsford Legal Centre and Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre. The Discrimination Toolkit is a plain English guide to Commonwealth and State discrimination law. Topics include discrimination basics, strategies for dealing with discrimination, what to expect if you make a formal complaint and where to get help. Packed with practical tips and examples, the Discrimination Toolkit is an invaluable resource for anyone who has been discriminated against and wants to do something about it. It can also be used by community workers and advocates who are assisting someone with a discrimination problem. Download the document.
Aged Care Who Cares?
Aged Care Who Cares? covers a vast range of options available to senior Australians today. Whatever your financial status, current state of health or future hopes and plans, you'll find down-to-earth advice to help you make the best choices for your senior years about aged care in Australia. Visit the website for more information, or read the book review in the Australian Ageing Agenda.
Tips to beat the summer heat for carers
NSW Health has developed an information booklet titled Beat the Heat. The resource aims to help carers to understand the effect of heat waves, and provide tips on how to prepare for hot weather, how to help someone during hot weather, and what to do after a heat wave, along with other useful resources. Visit the website or download the booklet.
Ageing NSW Government response to Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report
Carers NSW welcomes the NSW Government’s support of the Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report recommendations. See the media release or visit the report webpage.
Final report on economic potential of senior Australians released Federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, welcomed the release of the third and final report, Realising the economic potential of senior Australians: turning grey into gold, from the Advisory Panel on the Economic Potential of Senior Australians. Today's senior Australians are better placed than earlier generations to live longer healthier lives. The nation is now well positioned to benefit from advances in health care, improved education opportunities and greater financial security. The Commonwealth Government welcomes the recommendations of the Advisory Panel which go toward addressing how individuals, industry and governments can position Australia to benefit from a larger, more active population of seniors. Read the media release or go to the website to view all three reports.
Consultations with NSW communities on new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy
A series of consultation sessions will be held in January 2012 to help the NSW Government develop a new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy to enhance the lives of older residents. NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, said the consultations, which follow the Ageing Roundtable at Parliament House in September, will be held with peak ageing bodies, advocates and the wider community. A Summary Paper outlining the key findings from the Roundtable has also been released. Read the media release and see the consultation schedule.
National Aged Care Workforce Census & Survey
The National Aged Care Workforce Census involves all aged care facilities and community aged care services, a total of approximately 7,500 organisations (facilities and service outlets). The project aims to provide a comprehensive profile of the direct aged care workforce in the residential and community aged care settings through a census of aged care organisations and survey of a sample of workers, plus interviews with a small sample of direct care workers. It aims to contribute to the evidence base for the Government’s aged care policy and program development activities; and be a resource for the aged care industry in workforce planning initiatives. Read more.
BrainyApp for a brain healthy life
Alzheimer’s Australia and Bupa Health Foundation have created BrainyApp, an app to raise awareness of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, and to help users live a brain healthy life. BrainyApp is currently available for iPhone and iPad for free. Vist the website.
New research to tackle depression amongst older Australians and their carers
Federal Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, visited the National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) to launch the start of research into a program that aims to tackle depression among older Australians and their carers by improving their fitness. The study will investigate whether the use of the Otago Exercise Program by older Australians and their carers can reduce the incidence of depression and improve mental wellbeing. Read the media release.
New report finds cost of living hits oldest, poorest hard
Rising energy, food and health costs are disproportionally hitting the oldest and poorest Australians, a new report has found. In an analysis of household spending, the National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre report answers its question Are Older Australians Being Short Changed? with a resounding ”yes”. Read the media release or the report.
NACA Aged Care Reform Information Sheets
The National Aged Care Alliance (NACA) Aged Care Reform Information Sheets were released in November 2011. Read the Information Sheets.
Dancing reduces risk of dementia
For centuries, dance manuals and other writings have lauded the health benefits of dancing, usually as physical exercise. More recently we've seen research on further health benefits of dancing, such as stress reduction and increased serotonin level, with its sense of wellbeing. Then most recently we've heard of another benefit: Frequent dancing apparently makes us smarter. A major study added to the growing evidence that stimulating one's mind can ward off Alzheimer's disease and other dementia, much as physical exercise can keep the body fit. Dancing also increases cognitive acuity at all ages. Read more.
Aged Care Who Cares?
Aged Care Who Cares? covers a vast range of options available to senior Australians today. Whatever your financial status, current state of health or future hopes and plans, you'll find down-to-earth advice to help you make the best choices for your senior years about aged care in Australia. Visit the website for more information, or read the book review in the Australian Ageing Agenda.
Cost of caring for family carers of people with Alzheimer’s
The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) in the USA has released its latest study on family carers of people with Alzheimer’s. Caregiving Costs: Declining Health in the Alzheimer’s Caregiver as Dementia Increases in the Care Recipient shows a significant decrease in family carer health over time and increased personal healthcare costs, as their care recipient’s dementia increases. The study was conducted by examining the use of formal health services in a large sample of carers of people with Alzheimer’s. Read the document.
In addition, NAC is working with PhRMA to increase awareness of family carers of people with Alzheimer’s during this holiday season. NAC is promoting PhRMA’s new video, "A Caregiver's Story: Alzheimer's is a Cruel Disease". Please take a moment to watch this video and click “Like” on the Facebook page to show support for these carers.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Carers Roundtable to maximise diversity in the workplace
The NSW Government will set up a Ministerial Roundtable on Workplace Diversity to further maximise the economic benefits of cultural diversity. The decision was announced by NSW Minister for Citizenship and Communities, Victor Dominello, at the presentation of the National Multicultural Marketing Awards. Read the media release.
Refugee and migrant young people with caring responsibilities report
Carers Victoria, the Centre for Multicultural Youth, and the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria have collaborated to publish an important background paper and sector consultation report. The Refugee and migrant young people with caring responsibilities report highlights the lack of information in this area and argues the need for more research. Read the report.
Migrants with disability still not welcome
Australia's migration system initially rejects migrants with disabilities because their disabilities will cost the Australian state through the provision of specialised services and health care, and does not take into consideration their potential contribution. But disability activists say these criteria are linked to outdated notions and they should have no place in immigration policy. Visit the ABC website to listen to the audio or read the transcript.
Carer
participation and representation Carers NSW 2012-13 budget submission to NSW Government The Carers NSW 2012-13 budget submission to the NSW Government, Rebuild NSW Revolutionise caring, is now online. Read the document.
NSW Government response to Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report
Carers NSW welcomes the NSW Government’s support of the Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report recommendations. See the media release or visit the report webpage.
National Carer Strategy Evidence Base (companion document)
This Evidence Base is a companion document to the National Carer Strategy. It brings together a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research highlighting the nature of caring and the impact this has on the lives of carers. Read the document.
Consultations with NSW communities on new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy
A series of consultation sessions will be held in January 2012 to help the NSW Government develop a new Whole of Government Ageing Strategy to enhance the lives of older residents. NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, said the consultations, which follow the Ageing Roundtable at Parliament House in September, will be held with peak ageing bodies, advocates and the wider community. A Summary Paper outlining the key findings from the Roundtable has also been released. Read the media release and see the consultation schedule.
Senate Inquiry into palliative care in Australia The Senate Community Affairs References Committee is conducting an inquiry into the provision of palliative care in Australia. Read more.
Palliative Care NSW Policy Statement Discussion Paper
Palliative Care NSW (PCNSW) intends to release a Policy Statement by mid-2012, canvassing the significant challenges facing the palliative care sector (and therefore the health sector), and possible solutions to those challenges. The purpose of this Discussion Paper is to provoke discussion and debate amongst PCNSW membership and other key stakeholders around the issues that should be included in the Policy Statement. Download the Discussion Paper or Feedback Form.
Carers
and employment Women and work in Australia
'Women and work' remains an issue because the allocation of paid and unpaid work is still inequitable. Women, on average, work slightly longer hours than men, but spend more of this time on unpaid care and domestic work. These types of work, traditionally undertaken by women, are often not recognised and do not necessarily generate an entitlement to a fair share of family or community resources. Read the Australian Policy OnlineTopic Guide.
Carers
and financial issues Historic court win for carer NSW carers for motor-accident victims have won a landmark legal victory, with a judge ruling they can claim compensation. Read the article.
Concerns over NSW motor accident compensation review
Members of the legal profession have questioned why the NSW Government has not taken greater measures in an internal review of the state's motor accident compensation system. Watch this video from the ABC program, 7.30 New South Wales.
New report finds cost of living hits oldest, poorest hard
Rising energy, food and health costs are disproportionally hitting the oldest and poorest Australians, a new report has found. In an analysis of household spending, the National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre report answers its question Are Older Australians Being Short Changed? with a resounding ”yes”. Read the media release or the report.
Carers UK report on The Cost of Caring
Based on a survey of over 4,000 carers in the UK, this report sets out the consequences of financial pressures on carers’ health – as worries about their financial future take their own toll. Read the report.
Almost one million Australians to benefit from indexed payments
From 1 January 2012, more than 900,000 Australians who receive Carer Allowance, and payments to students and youth, such as Youth Allowance and Austudy, will see an increase in their payments as a result of indexation. Read the media release.
Carers
and legal issues Historic court win for carer NSW carers for motor-accident victims have won a landmark legal victory, with a judge ruling they can claim compensation. Read the article.
Concerns over NSW motor accident compensation review
Members of the legal profession have questioned why the NSW Government has not taken greater measures in an internal review of the state's motor accident compensation system. Watch this video from the ABC program, 7.30 New South Wales.
Updated edition of Discrimination Toolkit released
The fully revised and updated edition of the Discrimination Toolkit has been released. It is a joint publication of Legal Aid NSW, Kingsford Legal Centre and Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre. The Discrimination Toolkit is a plain English guide to Commonwealth and State discrimination law. Topics include discrimination basics, strategies for dealing with discrimination, what to expect if you make a formal complaint and where to get help. Packed with practical tips and examples, the Discrimination Toolkit is an invaluable resource for anyone who has been discriminated against and wants to do something about it. It can also be used by community workers and advocates who are assisting someone with a discrimination problem. Download the document.
Children, Youth & Young Carers Young Carer E-News The Carers NSW Young Carer Project sends out a monthly young carer e-newsletter which gives information about upcoming events and useful resources. Read the latest edition of YC E-News, read the past editions of YC E-News, or subscribe to YC E-News.
Young Carers NSW Facebook Page
The Young Carer Program now has a Facebook Page of its own - please 'Like' it if you would like to hear about whats happening for young carers! Go to the Young Carers NSW Facebook Page.
Young carers of people with mental illness survey on Facebook
The Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) has launched a survey targeting young carers of people with mental illness on Facebook. The Young Carers Project (YCP) survey app aims to collect information from young carers of people with mental illness about their caring role, what sort of caring activities they undertake, how caring impacts on their day-to-day lives, what supports are available to young carers of people with mental illness in their area, and the appropriateness of these supports. Download the media release.
Refugee and migrant young people with caring responsibilities report
Carers Victoria, the Centre for Multicultural Youth, and the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria have collaborated to publish an important background paper and sector consultation report. The Refugee and migrant young people with caring responsibilities report highlights the lack of information in this area and argues the need for more research. Read the report.
Supporting adolescent and young adult siblings of cancer patients
A new Research to Practice Paper by CanTeen recommends how those working with young people with cancer can support adolescent and young adult siblings of cancer patients. Around 1,000 young people are diagnosed with cancer each year and on average this will affect approximately 1,000 siblings. Research conducted by CanTeen, in conjunction with the University of Sydney, found that 57 per cent of siblings aged 12-24 years experience high to very high levels of distress, compared to 9 per cent of young people in the general population. Siblings are often overlooked in service delivery and many of their needs go unmet. Read the first Research to Practice Paper, Supporting adolescent and young adult siblings of cancer patients: the family context here. Future Practice Papers can be found on the website here.
Young Australians with disabilities are like young Australians everywhere
A video portrait created by young people from the Life Without Boundaries and Disability Trust groups, at Kiama Library. They took portraits and interviewed each other. The participants are Joanne, Brodie, Kaine, Ben, Justin, and Andrew. They want to show everyone that young Australians with disabilities are like young Australians everywhere - they like sport, music, social media, films, working, having fun, and they love their families. Find more information and the video here.
Chronic conditons, illnesses
& disabilities NSW Government response to Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report
Carers NSW welcomes the NSW Government’s support of the Services provided or funded by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care report recommendations. See the media release or visit the report webpage.
Address to NDS CEO’s Conference
Federal Shadow Minister for Disabilities, Carers and the Voluntary Sector, Mitch Fifield, addressed the National Disability Services (NDS) CEO’s Conference. Read the transcript of the speech.
New report highlights the economic impact of Multiple Sclerosis
A new report into the economic impact of multiple sclerosis reveals the substantial costs associated with the condition, and highlights the need for fundamental reform of disability care and support in Australia. Read the media release or the report.
The Future of Sourcing Disability Funded Services in NSW 2011-2016 Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC) is establishing a person-centred service system in NSW in which people with a disability, their families and carers are placed at the centre of decision-making and supported to live their life the way they want to. ADHC will focus on longer-term investment to support a thriving non-government sector that meets the diverse needs and choices of people, including greater flexibility in the way services are provided. This document sets out ADHC’s position on longer term funding reform. Read the document.
Working in Person Centred Ways for NSW advocacy and information services
In 2010/11, Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC) made a commitment that advocacy and information providers would have the opportunity to examine the implications of person-centred approaches for their services. This resource book is designed for advocacy and information services in NSW to promote a greater understanding of person-centred approaches by their services, to assist them to examine their work with service providers, and to prompt reflection on the implications for their work. Read the document.
Palliative care information: CareSearch
CareSearch provides immediate online access to quality evidence-based resources in palliative care. It includes current peer-reviewed palliative care information written in a language that patients and their families can easily understand. Visit the website.
Migrants with disability still not welcome
Australia's migration system initially rejects migrants with disabilities because their disabilities will cost the Australian state through the provision of specialised services and health care, and does not take into consideration their potential contribution. But disability activists say these criteria are linked to outdated notions and they should have no place in immigration policy. Visit the ABC website to listen to the audio or read the transcript.
Historic court win for carer NSW carers for motor-accident victims have won a landmark legal victory, with a judge ruling they can claim compensation. Read the article.
Concerns over NSW motor accident compensation review
Members of the legal profession have questioned why the NSW Government has not taken greater measures in an internal review of the state's motor accident compensation system. Watch this video from the ABC program, 7.30 New South Wales.
New online information hub for type 2 diabetes On World Diabetes Day (14 November 2011), NPS launched an online information hub to help people with type 2 diabetes be medicinewise about their condition. Read the media release or go to the online information hub.
New web-based training package to support people with Motor Neurone Disease
NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, launched a new web-based training package to enhance the expertise of staff supporting people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). MND Aware was developed by the Motor Neurone Disease Association of NSW (MNDNSW) in collaboration with Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC). Read the media release.
Supporting Australians with psychosocial disability Supporting people with a psychosocial disability is the focus of a report that will help to further develop mental health policy in Australia. Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas, launched the National Mental Health Consumer and Carer Forum Position Statement Unravelling Psychosocial Disability, which focuses on psychosocial disability associated with mental health conditions. Read the media release.
The TEA Room opens for Australian teenagers with epilepsy
Australia's first social networking site for teenagers with epilepsy, has been launched in Brisbane. The TEA Room (Teenage Epilepsy Agenda) is a secure, friendly online space for 13 to 19 year olds with epilepsy. They can live in any state, and will be able to interact with each other as well as young people in Scotland. Scottish teenagers with epilepsy have spent the past year developing a strong community of friends through the first TEA Room, established by the Scottish Epilepsy Initiative. The Australian site is a pilot project - the first outside Scotland. If it proves successful, the chat room concept will be extended to teenagers with epilepsy living in other English-speaking countries. Read the media release.
Patient empowerment for tackling chronic disease This paper seeks to provide a platform for discussion amongst service providers, policy makers and those who influence policy. This paper argues that implementation efforts for patient empowerment across health organisations and systems need to be based on the same discipline and science as all other aspects of healthcare innovation. Read the paper.
Understanding how housing assistance affects social inclusion for people with a disability
People with a disability and their households remain one of the most disadvantaged groups within society. Housing assistance, and especially access to social housing, is one measure that governments can take to substantially improve their wellbeing and degree of social inclusion within broader society. People with a disability should remain a priority group in the housing allocation processes of social housing providers and more attention should be paid to the interface between health services and housing. Read more.
ABS releases Disability and Long Term Health Conditions data
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Disability and Long Term Health Conditions, 2009. The publication presents a suite of data cubes examining the relationship between disability and long term health conditions. The tables include broad level information on the numbers of people with long term health conditions in each of the states (ACT and NT are not included). They also include information on some of the most common long term health conditions, the degree to which these restrict people with disability and the causes underlying main conditions. Visit the website.
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex (GLBTI) Carers Carers NSW GLBTI resources
Carers NSW has GLBTI resources available by calling the Carer Line 1800 242 636. They include a poster, a factsheet, and a postcard.
Carer life course website now includes GLBTI carer resources
Carers NSW has developed an online learning tool, called the Carer Life Course Framework, which was launched in 2010. It describes the stages of caring and contains resources for GLBTI carers.
National LGBTI Ageing Roundtable Summary Report The National LGBTI Ageing Roundtable was held on 18-19 October 2011. Read the Summary Report here.
Health New Medicare Locals to be operational in 2012 There are already 19 Medicare Locals operating around the country. The Commonwealth Government has announced a further 38 new Medicare Locals. Of these, 18 will commence establishment and operational activities from 1 January 2012 and the remaining Medicare Locals will commence from 1 July 2012. Read more.
Mesothelioma information online
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which is usually caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma Prognosis is a website that provides online resources and information on the disease. Visit the website.
The complexities of the e-health revolution
The Commonwealth Government Parliamentary Library released a Research Paper providing an introductory overview of some of e-health’s critical aspects. In so doing, it looks briefly at certain aspects of the overseas experience of e-health policy development and considers some practical application case studies. For the most part, however, the paper concentrates on the evolution of e-health policy in Australia. Read the document.
International comparison report on health care in NSW The Bureau of Health Information’s second annual report, Healthcare in Focus 2011: How well does NSW perform?, compares the state to Australia and 10 countries to identify achievements and opportunities for improving healthcare for sicker adults - people most likely to have recent, firsthand experience with care. Visit the website.
iPhone Medicines List app version 2 released The National Prescribing Service (NPS) has released Medicines List version 2 for the iPhone. The new release has been updated with scheduling and reminder functions. Read more.
National Health Reform Briefings
The Health Reform Transition Office recently concluded a series of briefings across Australia on the new National Health Reform Agreement. Questions and answers taken during the briefings are now available. Visit the website.
Proximity to transport is a health, gender and equity issue
Analysing a 2011 Victorian Department of Health dataset on Local Government Area performance in 2009 against a whole range of indices, this paper finds that proximate transport access is an important health issue, especially for women. Read the report.
ABS releases Disability and Long Term Health Conditions data
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Disability and Long Term Health Conditions, 2009. The publication presents a suite of data cubes examining the relationship between disability and long term health conditions. The tables include broad level information on the numbers of people with long term health conditions in each of the states (ACT and NT are not included). They also include information on some of the most common long term health conditions, the degree to which these restrict people with disability and the causes underlying main conditions. Visit the website.
UK study on new ideas to support carer health and wellbeing Research carried out by Circle (the Centre for International Research on Care, Labour and Equalities) at the University of Leeds studied the impact and effectiveness of 25 multi-agency projects funded by the UK Department of Health, set up to explore new ways of supporting some of England's most hard-pressed carers. Almost 19,000 carers participated and Circle found many carers really valued the extra help they received. The report, New Approaches to Supporting Carers' Health and Well-being: evidence from the National Carers' Strategy Demonstrator Sites Programme, highlights ideas that work to help carers stay well and healthy, to get a short break or chance to meet their own needs. For carers struggling to make ends meet, small investments in gym memberships, laptops or short holidays make a real difference, yet cost only a fraction of what needs to be spent if their care breaks down or cannot be sustained. Special health and wellbeing checks spotted many physical and mental conditions, including diabetes, depression and cancer, which – as carers often put their own needs second to those of others – were previously undiagnosed. When GPs or hospitals work together with social services and voluntary agencies in their area, support for carers can really improve at a comparatively small cost. Download the report.
Housing Understanding how housing assistance affects social inclusion for people with a disability
People with a disability and their households remain one of the most disadvantaged groups within society. Housing assistance, and especially access to social housing, is one measure that governments can take to substantially improve their wellbeing and degree of social inclusion within broader society. People with a disability should remain a priority group in the housing allocation processes of social housing providers and more attention should be paid to the interface between health services and housing. Read more.
Koori Carers Expression of Interest for Southern Region Aboriginal Advisory Group membership The Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC) Southern Region Aboriginal Advisory Group (AAG) is committed to identifying ways in which service delivery can support and strengthen Aboriginal Culture as well as increasing the number of Aboriginal people accessing ADHC and ADHC funded services. Five vacancies currently exist for Aboriginal people who are interested in sharing information and providing advice to ADHC on services and the delivery of services to Aboriginal communities in the Southern Region. Read more.
4th Annual Chronic Care for Aboriginal People State Forum
The 4th Annual Chronic Care for Aboriginal People State Forum was held on 3-4 November 2011. The presentation slides are available for download.
Aboriginal rural health report: Managing Two Worlds Together The Lowitja Institute has released a comprehensive study on rural and regional Aboriginal patients and their carers, and their experiences with the South Australian public health system. Study 3 on the experiences of patients and their carers is available here. Other publications from the study are available here.
New National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan being developed
The Commonwealth Government has announced the development of a new health plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The plan will give effect to the Government’s undertaking to close the gap in life expectancy and infant mortality between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and the broader population. Read the media release.
NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework 2010 report This report contains detailed analyses against indicators in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework (the HPF) for NSW. The HPF is the basis for monitoring the impact of the National Strategic Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (NSFATSH) and informs policy analyses, planning and program implementation. The HPF consists of 71 indicators covering three tiers—health status and outcomes, determinants of health and health systems performance. Read the report.
Changes needed to close the gap for Indigenous Australians with disabilities
Alongside high rates of incarceration, unemployment, homelessness and some of the poorest health outcomes in Australia, Indigenous people’s access and use of disability services is under-representative of the total Aboriginal population. Read the article.
NSW Aboriginal Community Care Gathering Committee celebrates 10th anniversary
The NSW Aboriginal Community Care Gathering Committee celebrated its 10th anniversary on 25 November 2011 with an Aboriginal cultural cruise on Sydney Harbour with the Tribal Warrior Association. NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, joined the Gathering Committee to mark the occasion. Read the media release.
New resource sheet on Effective practices for service delivery coordination in Indigenous communities
The purpose of improving outcomes for consumers is particularly pertinent for many Indigenous Australians. Indigenous Australians are worse off than non-Indigenous Australians on a number of indicators of health and wellbeing, including those related to life expectancy, employment and housing. Typically, an individual service is not able to respond directly to the multiple and complex issues experienced, particularly in remote and outer regional communities where an estimated 46 per cent of Indigenous people live. Read more.
Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing: Looking After Ourselves Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing: Looking After Ourselves workshop is a free one day workshop open to service providers and Aboriginal carers who work with or want to work with carers within the Aboriginal community. Based on a train the trainer model the workshop aims to enhance the capacity of service providers and Aboriginal carers in promoting carer health and wellbeing within the Aboriginal community. When: 23 February, 15 March, 22 March, 3 April 2012 Where: Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Central Coast, and Newcastle. Venues to be confirmed Details:Registeronline, see theflyer
Mental
health New online tool to assist carers of people with mental illness The new Carers NSW interactive online learning tool, Mental Health Foundations for Carers, has gone live! The tool includes carer video stories, references to the Carer Life Course and practical tools to support carers of people with mental illness. Go to the online learning tool.
Young carers of people with mental illness survey on Facebook
The Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) has launched a survey targeting young carers of people with mental illness on Facebook. The Young Carers Project (YCP) survey app aims to collect information from young carers of people with mental illness about their caring role, what sort of caring activities they undertake, how caring impacts on their day-to-day lives, what supports are available to young carers of people with mental illness in their area, and the appropriateness of these supports. Download the media release.
Early psychosis consumer, carer and community input in the North Coast region The Northern NSW Local Health District is seeking input from mental health consumers and carers on how to improve treatment for people with early psychosis. Consumers and carers living in the North Coast region that have experience with a first episode of psychosis within the last ten years are encouraged to participate. Read more.
Last chance to complete the Mental Health Carers Survey 2011-12 Calling all carers of people with mental illness! This is your last chance to complete the Mental Health Carers Survey 2011-12 by the Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA). The online survey will remain open until Christmas Day (25 December 2011). The survey is part of a cumulative research project into the lives of carers of people with mental illness. The findings are published and widely distributed to politicians, government departments, carers, consumers, workers, clinicians and bureaucrats. Go to the online survey.
Survey for health professionals working with mental health consumers and carers of people with mental illness The Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) is seeking the views and comments of health professionals working with mental health consumers and carers of people with mental illness on how they involve consumers and carers in treatment decision making; the unique barriers to implementing shared decision making in day-to-day work practices; and any information or resource gaps for mental health professionals who would like to improve their capacity to employ shared decision making principles in their day-to-day work practices. Go to the online survey.
Black Dog Institute Writing Competition focuses on carers
The latest Black Dog Institute Writing Competition, Walking the Tightrope – Caring for Someone with Depression or Bipolar Disorder, throws the spotlight on the powerful stories that come from carers of people with depression or bipolar disorder, with a particular focus on the questions of what worked best, what didn’t work and what was learnt? The closing date for receipt of entries is 31 January 2012. Read the media release.
Voice for consumers in mental health reform
Federal Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, announced the establishment of a new Consumer Reference Group which will assist in setting the directions of the new national mental health consumer organisation and setting up mechanisms to involve consumers from the beginning. The Group will be appointed following a national call for Expressions of Interest in early January 2012. Read the media release.
Appointment of Mental Health Commissioners
Federal Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has announced the appointment of the Mental Health Commissioners to Australia’s first National Mental Health Commission. These eight new Commissioners join the newly formed Mental Health Commission under the Chairmanship of Professor Allan Fels. Download the media release.
Introduction of Mental Health Commission Bill in NSW Parliament
NSW Minister for Mental Health, Kevin Humphries, introduces the Mental Health Commission Bill 2011. Read the Hansard extract.
Final report: Inquiry into Commonwealth Funding and Administration of Mental Health Services
The Senate Committee report proposed changes to mental health programs and funding. The Senate Committee was divided about their findings into the funding and administration of Commonwealth mental health services. Read the report.
Supporting Australians with psychosocial disability Supporting people with a psychosocial disability is the focus of a report that will help to further develop mental health policy in Australia. Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas, launched the National Mental Health Consumer and Carer Forum Position Statement Unravelling Psychosocial Disability, which focuses on psychosocial disability associated with mental health conditions. Read the media release.
New SANE report on people living with psychosis
The important new People Living with Psychotic Illness study is the largest ever carried out in Australia on the impact of conditions such as schizophrenia. The study was commissioned by the Commonwealth Government, Department of Health and Ageing, and conducted by a team of experts which spanned the country. It provides an extraordinarily comprehensive insight into the impact of psychotic illness on the lives of Australians today. Visit the website.
New Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) is currently transitioning the former Mental Health Access Line to a new number that will continue to provide high level care by mental health professionals. The new Mental Health Line is a single point, state wide service that connects the people of NSW with appropriate care. It provides 24-hour mental health connection and referral services and is staffed by mental health professionals across NSW. Read the media release.
Palliative Care & End-of-Life Decision-Making Palliative care information: CareSearch
CareSearch provides immediate online access to quality evidence-based resources in palliative care. It includes current peer-reviewed palliative care information written in a language that patients and their families can easily understand. Visit the website.
Action plan for the NSW Palliative Care Program released The NSW Palliative Care Development Planning Framework 2011-2014 (the Planning Framework) is the action plan for the NSW Palliative Care Program, and is a document from which service planners, providers and communities of interest will draw guidance and direction. The Planning Framework describes how the five planning priorities identified in the Framework will be operationalised across NSW Health. Read the document.
Senate Inquiry into palliative care in Australia The Senate Community Affairs References Committee is conducting an inquiry into the provision of palliative care in Australia. Read more.
Palliative Care NSW Policy Statement Discussion Paper
Palliative Care NSW (PCNSW) intends to release a Policy Statement by mid-2012, canvassing the significant challenges facing the palliative care sector (and therefore the health sector), and possible solutions to those challenges. The purpose of this Discussion Paper is to provoke discussion and debate amongst PCNSW membership and other key stakeholders around the issues that should be included in the Policy Statement. Download the Discussion Paper or Feedback Form.
Technology New online tool to assist carers of people with mental illness The new Carers NSW interactive online learning tool, Mental Health Foundations for Carers, has gone live! The tool includes carer video stories, references to the Carer Life Course and practical tools to support carers of people with mental illness. Go to the online learning tool.
Connecting Carers to IT outreach program
From November 2011 to June 2012, Carers NSW will be running workshops for carers to cover the skills needed to access the internet and to use email. The workshop is free. There are no pre-requisites and you don’t need to have a computer to apply. Carers NSW has an IT van and we will bring this service to you. See the flyer.
Young Carers NSW Facebook Page
The Young Carer Program now has a Facebook Page of its own - please 'Like' it if you would like to hear about whats happening for young carers! Go to the Young Carers NSW Facebook Page.
BrainyApp for a brain healthy life
Alzheimer’s Australia and Bupa Health Foundation have created BrainyApp, an app to raise awareness of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, and to help users live a brain healthy life. BrainyApp is currently available for iPhone and iPad for free. Vist the website.
The complexities of the e-health revolution
The Commonwealth Government Parliamentary Library released a Research Paper providing an introductory overview of some of e-health’s critical aspects. In so doing, it looks briefly at certain aspects of the overseas experience of e-health policy development and considers some practical application case studies. For the most part, however, the paper concentrates on the evolution of e-health policy in Australia. Read the document.
iPhone Medicines List app version 2 released The National Prescribing Service (NPS) has released Medicines List version 2 for the iPhone. The new release has been updated with scheduling and reminder functions. Read more.
More... End of year message from Minister Constance
See the end of year message from NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance, here.
Changes to the Commonwealth Government Ministry and Cabinet
Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced changes to the Ministry and the Cabinet. Read more.
Commonwealth Government supports pay equality
Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that the Commonwealth Government was prepared to provide over $2 billion to deliver a historic pay rise to 150,000 of Australia’s lowest paid workers in the social and community services sector. Read the media release.
Services to support the transition to individualised funding fact sheet October 2011
In 2011/12, the NSW Government has allocated an additional $3.1 million for services that will set the scene for the shift to individualised and portable funding arrangements under Stronger Together 2. Read the fact sheet.
10th biennial report on national welfare services and statistics released Australia's welfare 2011 is the 10th biennial welfare report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). It is the most comprehensive and authoritative source of national information on welfare services in Australia. Topics include children and young people, disability and disability services, ageing and aged care, informal carers, homelessness, housing assistance, community services workforce, welfare expenditure, and indicators of Australia's welfare. Read the report.
Support the Every Australian Counts campaign. For more information, follow this 