In the quiet corners of our homes, behind closed doors, there exists an army of unsung heroes. They are the carers—the backbone of our society, the invisible lifelines that keep our loved ones afloat. Yet, their sacrifices often go unnoticed, their struggles buried beneath the weight of their responsibilities.

Did you know that one in eight people in our country is a carer? That’s right—ordinary individuals who selflessly shoulder the burden of caring for aging parents, disabled siblings, or ailing partners. Their numbers have surged by 50 percent since 2016, a testament to the growing need for their tireless efforts.

Most of these carers are women. They navigate the delicate balance between work and caregiving, their days a relentless juggling act. The physical and mental toll is immense—long hours, sleepless nights, and the constant worry about their loved ones’ well-being. Yet, they soldier on, fueled by love and duty.

READ MORE BELOW

Our population is aging rapidly, and our nursing home sector is shrinking. Childcare facilities close their doors weekly, leaving families scrambling for alternatives. Who steps in? The carers. They sacrifice their own dreams, their own well-being, to ensure that those they love receive the care they deserve.

But here’s the heartbreaking truth: our government fails them. Financially and practically, carers are left hanging by a thread. The means test for Carers Allowance—a cruel hurdle—forces them into dependency on their partner’s income. It’s a precarious existence, teetering on the edge of financial ruin.

We must change this narrative. Let’s recognize the silent strength of carers. Let’s abolish the means test and make caring financially viable. These unsung heroes deserve more than our applause; they deserve our unwavering support. It’s time to lift them from the shadows and honor their sacrifice. Because when we care for our carers, we care for our future.