In a media release today, Carers Tasmania, the state’s Peak Body for informal carers, has welcomed the passing of legislation by the Legislative Council today that will, for the first time, formally recognise informal carers in the state.

“One in six houses across Tasmania has someone providing informal care. Each year, carers contribute over 2.2 billion hours of unpaid care nationally, which if replaced would cost $77.9 billion,” said CEO, David Brennan.

Under the new legislation, informal kinship carers, who are most commonly grandparents, will also be recognised when they are caring for a child.

Tasmania is the last state or territory to legislate carer recognition.

“It is long overdue that they be seen, acknowledged and respected as a matter of law,” said Mr Brennan.

Read the full media release below: