Advisory Committee for the National Carer Strategy – Background and FAQs
Background
In October 2023, the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, announced the development of a National Carer Strategy (the Strategy), to deliver a national agenda to support Australia’s carers.
The Strategy will recognise the immense contribution of Australia’s unpaid carers to the community, and provide a framework for coordination of carer policy across Commonwealth portfolios including aged care, disability, veterans’ affairs and mental health. It will be developed in consultation with carers across Australia to ensure it reflects the diversity of carers and the challenges they face and appropriately supports carers’ wellbeing and their economic and social participation.
To support the development and implementation of the Strategy, a National Carer Strategy Advisory Committee (the Committee) will be formed. It will be developed in consultation with carers across Australia to reflect the diversity of carers, the challenges they face and appropriately supports carers’ wellbeing, as well as their economic and social participation.
Members of the Committee will be selected through an open EOI process and appointed by the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP. This page provides additional background and answers to frequently asked questions to support those seeking to apply for membership on the Committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the Advisory Committee?
The Committee will provide advice to Government and contribute to the development of a National Carer Strategy. This will involve contributing to the scope and approach of engagement, as well as the content and themes of the Strategy. Committee members will draw on their personal and professional experience and their networks to ensure the Strategy reflects the diversity of experiences and challenges faced by carers. The Committee members will have a key role in supporting the delivery of the Strategy through regular meetings and the opportunity to provide detailed input at key points in the development process.
Who will be on the Advisory Committee?
The Advisory Committee will consist of both sector representatives and carers with diverse lived experience. Collectively, the Advisory Committee will have expertise and experience with a range of service systems, including health care, end of life care, aged care, veterans’ affairs, and disability services.
Who will decide who is on the Advisory Committee?
The Minister for Social Services, The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, will appoint members to the Committee, following the conclusion of the Expression of Interest process.
How long will EOI applications be open? Will late applications be accepted?
Applications closed on 29 January 2024 at 11:59pm.
How often will the Advisory Committee meet?
While timeframes are yet to be determined, the Committee is expected to meet regularly throughout 2024 over the course of the development of the Strategy, with the first meeting expected to be held in February 2024. Committee members may be asked to comment on documents, provide input and take part in engagement activities between meetings.
Will members be paid for their time?
Committee members will be appointed in a non-statutory capacity and remunerated in line with Commonwealth remuneration legislation and guidance for non government, part time office appointments. Costs, such as sitting fees and travel costs, will be addressed in future briefings once the Committee membership and meeting protocols are determined.
When will I find out if I’m chosen for the Advisory Committee?
After applications close, the Minister for Social Services will write to the selected nominees to offer a position on the Committee and confirm further information on the role and responsibilities.
Can I participate in the development of the National Carer Strategy if I am not appointed to the Advisory Committee?
Yes. We will seek to hear from a variety of voices in the community through a range of consultation methods, such as via written submissions, roundtables, and other engagement events. To stay updated on the development of the Strategy and opportunities, please subscribe below.
What will happen with the information I provide in my EOI?
In applying for the EOI, you will provide the Department of Social Services (the department) with some personal information, including sensitive information. The department will handle your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). More information can be found in the Privacy Collection Notice.
How will I know my EOI has been received?
After submitting the form you will receive an email notification confirming receipt of your application. If you do not receive a notification, please confirm you have submitted the form then follow up with the National Carer Strategy secretariat team.
All applications submitted through the online form, or in the instance of handwritten applications, submitted to the National Carer Strategy mailbox, nationalcarerstrategy@dss.gov.au, before 11:59pm on 29 January 2024, will be reviewed and considered.
Where can I go if I have additional questions?
You can find more information on the National Carer Strategy on the Department of Social Services website:
For further queries contact the secretariat team at nationalcarerstrategy@dss.gov.au.