Lobbying

While the support you need is very much on a practical and day-to-day
level there is another level at which it may help to get involved. In
situations where you feel you have little control over what is happening
standing up for yourself and others often helps. There are grandparent
groups involved in lobbying for better services. COTA (NSW) and GRaKCA
has been lobbying for grandparent services for over 10 years.

Grandparents raising grandchildren have rights:
The basic right is the provision of ongoing and equitable support and
services specifically geared towards grandparents who are raising their
grandchildren.

GRG NSW is lobbying:

• To support and improve the quality of life for Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren through advocacy and the provision of consistent and reliable information and support services.
• To raise awareness within the community and all levels of government regarding the social justice issues associated with the increasing demands on grandparents raising grandchildren.
• For the fair and equitable treatment of grandparents who are raising grandchildren throughout Australia. Specifically, that grandparents are recognised at least at the same level as Foster Carers in NSW - with the same financial support and access to training.

If you want to make a difference you can join the many grandparents writing letters and lobbying state and federal politicians.

State responsibility lies with:

Minister for Family and Community Services, and Minister for Women:

Ms Pru Goward, MP

Level 34 Governor Macquarie Tower

1 Farrer Place

SYDNEY NSW 2000
Email: office@goward.minister.nsw.gov.au

Note: When contacting a Minister via email or letters, please ensure your postal address and contact details are included on all correspondence and blind copy COTA NSW (lisa.langley@cotansw.com.au).

Your local member of parliament is another person to approach. If you
are uncertain as to the name of your local member, minister or senator
Click here