Carers WA, the organization that supports the state's approximately 320,000 unpaid carers, is facing an overwhelming demand for its services, pushing them to the brink of a crisis. According to CEO Richard Newman, the situation has reached a critical point, and ongoing demand is leading to what he describes as a 'carer cliff.' This alarming scenario highlights the urgent need for additional resources and support for those who provide essential care, often without any financial compensation.

Due to rising demands, especially noted during the Christmas and New Year period, Carers WA is struggling to keep up with the number of support requests coming in. The total value of unpaid care provided by these individuals is estimated at around $6.6 billion annually, indicating the vast contribution these carers make to society. The failure to properly support these unpaid caregivers can have significant repercussions not only on their wellbeing but also on the healthcare system as a whole, since many of these carers play a crucial role in managing the needs of vulnerable populations.

In response to this growing issue, Community Services Minister Matthew Swinbourn stated that the state government is in the process of developing a new 10-year Carers Strategy aimed at addressing the challenges faced by these unpaid caregivers. This ongoing development represents a necessary step towards alleviating the strain on Carers WA and ensuring that adequate protections and benefits are in place for the many individuals who dedicate their lives to caring for others. The roadmap for future support appears critical as the demand for care continues to rise without adequate resources to match it.