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Qld Parliament passes new laws for carers

Posted November 27, 2008 09:44:00

Queensland Parliament has passed legislation that recognises the role of carers, with the State Government supporting an amended Opposition Private Member's Bill.

Opposition spokeswoman Rosemary Menkens introduced the Bill, telling Parliament it sets up a Carers Advisory Council and a Carer's Charter.

"The Charter is the central pivot, the most important central pivot of this Bill," she said.

"This Carer's Charter does reflect similar legislation in other states - we are long overdue here in Queensland.

"We have been dragging our feet here from the perspective of acknowledging our carers and the work they do."

Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr told Parliament there are about 536,000 carers in Queensland and they make a significant contribution.

"This Government recognises the remarkable and selfless support that carers provide family members, loved ones, friends and neighbours, as well as the immense benefits their volunteering efforts bring to the wonderful social fabrics of our communities," she said.

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