4,700 cardholders … and counting: Minister

Communities and Disability Services Queensland Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said more than 4,700 Queensland carers have signed up for a Bligh Government Carer Business Discount Card.

Celebrating its three-month anniversary during Carers Week this week (October 19-25), Ms Nelson-Carr said the an average of over 50 new cardholders a day had signed on for the card since its launch in July.

“Eligible carers are accessing great discounts, ranging from 5-10% on average for a range of goods and services around the State,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“Discounts are advertised in regional directories which also include Seniors Card specials.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said an important aspect of the Carer Business Discount Card was to encourage socially-conscious business operators to show their support for carers by offering special discounts.

Queenslanders who receive the Centrelink Carer Payment or the Carer Allowance are eligible for a card.

“An estimated 90,000 carers stand to benefit from the scheme which has already received the backing of 2600 businesses,” said the Minister.

“Interestingly, we have found nearly 84% of our cardholders are women which mirrors ABS data showing women are most likely to be the primary carers of people with a disability.

“In the spirit of Carers Week, a time when we celebrate the remarkable contribution of these outstanding Queenslanders, I encourage business operators to get on board and help the wider community care for Queensland carers.”

The Carer Business Discount Card is a key plank in the Queensland Government’s Carer Recognition Policy and Carer Action Plan 2006-10.

“We recognise the remarkable and selfless support carers provide family members, loved ones, friends and neighbours, as well as the immense benefits their volunteering efforts bring to the wonderful social fabric of our communities,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“The Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 vision is about creating safe, caring communities and we stand steadfastly committed to achieve that.”

Businesses interested in registering discounts for carers can contact Card Services on 3224 8747 or online at www.qld.gov.au/carercard

Carers can apply for a card online at www.qld.gov.au/carercard or over-the-phone on 131304.

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