Unpaid carers’ health concern

CARERS Tasmania is calling for unpaid carers to be included in a national review of mental health impacts on the economy.

The Federal Government has announced a Productivity Commission inquiry into the role of mental health and the best ways to support and improve mental wellbeing.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt says the inquiry will reveal the true impact of mental illness on the economy, and provide recommendations on how the Government can most effectively improve population mental health as well as social and economic participation.

The Government will spend an estimated $4.7 billion this year on mental health and the states and territories will kick in another $4.3 billion.

Carers Tasmania chief executive David Brennan says the “hidden workforce” of unpaid family and friend carers contribute $60.3 billion to the economy each year and deserved to be included in the scope of the inquiry.

“Their economic contribution is significant, so their mental health should be considered by the inquiry,” Mr Brennan said.

He said there was currently over 85,000 family carers in the state.

The inquiry is due to begin this month and the final report should be provided to the Government within 18 months.