CARERS THE FOCUS OF CHERMSIDE COMMUNITY FORUM

Support for all carers was discussed at today’s Ministerial Regional Community Forum in Chermside.

Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Sport Judy Spence and Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier Phil Reeves met local community representatives, known as forum members, to exchange information and share ideas.

Forum members also presented a proposal to support carers who are found in all communities and across all age groups who may provide care for a few hours a day, or all day, everyday.

They discussed the Carers Card which has been one of the key initiatives under the Queensland Government Carers Action Plan 2006-2010. The Carer Card offers a range of social and financial benefits, including discounts.

Forum members also presented papers on driver education and support, major infrastructure development in South-East Queensland and the Climate Smart 2050 package.

Minister for Communities Lindy Nelson-Carr said the relevant Government departments would now review the proposal and report back at the next forum held in the region.

“I want to thank the community and especially forum members for getting involved in the forum,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“These forums organised by the Department of Communities enable Government to better understand the needs of Queenslanders and their communities.”

She encouraged people to get in touch with their local forum members to suggest issues for consideration at the next forum on 20 November.

Forum member contact details and other information is available from the Department of Communities Mount Gravatt Service Centre, Greater Brisbane Region, on 3343 0200.

Forum events were run simultaneously today in nine other regional areas:

·Beenleigh

·Boyne Island

·Charters Towers

·Collinsville

·Gatton

·Highfields

·Nambour

·Thursday Island

·Wondai

Media contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280