Source: The St George and Sutherland Shire Leader [MARIANNA PAPADAKIS]

CARERS of people with disabilities are not optimistic that the Federal Government's planned inquiry into their needs will produce "real outcomes''.

Federal Attorney-General and Barton MP, Robert McClelland, said budget funding of $100 million to assist with accommodation for disabled children as they move into adulthood was only a ``first instalment'' and this inquiry would determine the needs of carers.

He said a review of federal-state funding responsibilities by the Council of Australian Governments would cut out areas of duplication.

Colin and Annie Cole are carers for their intellectually disabled daughter Sarah, 22. Mr Cole said while planning for the future was always on his mind, planning everyday needs took priority.

"You are always wondering what is going to happen to them when you are gone,'' Mr Cole said. "We just have to go a day at a time.

"Carers save the Government a lot of money. We work 24 hours every day and that is not talked about. The Government needs to listen to carers and revise needs but I would rather money go to support services.''

Carers NSW chief executive officer Elena Katrakis said the federal budget failed to provide adequate financial security for carers and the Federal Government's inquiry meant putting ``real outcomes'' on hold until next year's budget.

Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George Ltd service division manager Janet Thorley said up to 40 carers over the age of 65 had attended a recent information session on planning for the future.

Banks MP Daryl Melham said solutions needed to be affordable long-term but there were ``no promises'' on what the Government would deliver.