The Heart Behind The Carer:
Celebrating our 3 Million Informal Carers

Caring for a loved one is an act of quiet heroism, filled with love, patience and selflessness, often without recognition or reward.  
National Carers Week (Oct 12 – Oct 18) is a time we honour and celebrate these dedicated individuals. Join us as we explore what it means to be a carer and what activities are taking place during carers week. This is a time that this country shows them our appreciation. 

What is an Informal Carer?

An informal carer is someone who provides ongoing, unpaid assistance to a loved one who is elderly, frail, or living with illness or disability. They may be a spouse helping their partner dress each morning, a daughter organising her mother’s medical appointments, a neighbour preparing meals for a friend, or a grandchild assisting with mobility. 

Unlike professional support workers, informal carers step into this role out of love and necessity. Their work often happens quietly, woven into the routines of daily life, yet the impact they have is profound. In many cases, without them, their loved one would need full-time residential care. 

I never planned to be a carer, but when Mum’s dementia worsened, I couldn’t imagine anyone else looking after her. – Karen, VIC

Why Carers Matter

Carers are the invisible backbone of Australia’s health and aged care system. By providing unpaid care, they reduce the demand on hospitals, residential facilities, and community services. This not only saves billions of dollars* annually but allows older Australians to remain at home, surrounded by familiarity and love.
*According to a 2024 audit by Deloitte’s the figure was 79 billion.

The role can be emotionally rewarding, but it is also challenging. Carers often juggle employment, family responsibilities, and their own health needs. The importance of recognising and supporting them cannot be overstated. 

Dad looked after Mum for 12 years after her stroke. He never once complained, but I know it took a toll on him. – James, NSW 

Financial Support for Carers 

In Australia, some financial assistance is available for carers who meet specific eligibility criteria: 

• Carer Payment: An income support payment for those unable to work full-time due to caring responsibilities. 

• Carer Allowance: A supplementary payment for those who provide daily care to someone with a disability, severe illness, or frailty. 

• Carer Supplement: An annual lump sum paid to recipients of the Carer Payment or Carer Allowance. 

• State-based concessions: Some states offer travel discounts, reduced utility bills, and health care subsidies for eligible carers. 

Eligibility depends on factors such as the level of care provided, income, assets, and the health needs of the person being cared for. More information is available through Services Australia and your local state carer support organisation. 

The Australian Carers Guide, along with Are Media and Carers Australia are also petitioning the Federal Government to have superannuation included for unpaid carers. 

The hardest part was feeling invisible. When my sister started checking in weekly, I felt like I could breathe again. – Lisa, QLD

Where Carers Can Find Support in Australia 

Help is available at both a national and state level: 

National: 

• Carer Gateway 1800 422 737 – offering counselling, respite services, skills courses, and financial advice. 

• National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 – support for carers of people with dementia.
  

State-Based Support:

• Carers NSW – 02 9280 4744 

• Carers Victoria – 1800 514 845 

• Carers Queensland – 1300 747 636 

• Carers WA – 1300 227 377 

• Carers SA – 08 8291 5600 

• Carers Tasmania – 03 6144 3700 

• Carers NT – 1800 422 737 

• Carers ACT – 02 6296 9900 
  
  

When I finally took a weekend away, I came back refreshed and ready to give my best again. – Phil, WA 

Staying Connected and Caring for Yourself 

Carers often place their loved one’s needs ahead of their own, but self-care is vital. Here are some ideas on how to stay connected and care for yourself: 

• Join a local or online support group. 

• Schedule regular catch-ups with friends. 

• Take short daily walks or practice gentle stretching (like yoga). 

• Explore hobbies that can be done at home, such as gardening or painting. 

• Make use of respite care to recharge. 

National Carers Week

National Carers Week, held Oct 12 – Oct 18, is a time to recognise and celebrate carers across Australia. It offers opportunities for carers, families, and communities to connect and raise awareness. 

Some Events and Activities for Carers Include: 

• Morning teas at local community centres. 

• Free wellness workshops such as yoga or art therapy. 

• Information stalls at shopping centres. 

• Story-sharing sessions where carers can share their experiences. 

• State-based festivals and picnics. 

• Online webinars covering legal, financial, and wellbeing topics. 

These events not only provide practical information but also remind carers they are valued and not alone. 
Visit https://carersweek.com.au to find events and activities in your state. 

How to Support a Carer

Even small acts can make a significant difference to a carer’s well-being. Here are ways to help: 

• Offer practical assistance: Cook a meal, run errands, mow the lawn, or help with shopping. 

• Provide emotional support: Sometimes the best help is simply listening without judgement. 

• Encourage time out: Offer to spend time with their loved one so the carer can rest or pursue a hobby. 

• Include them socially: Invite them to gatherings, even if they cannot always attend. The invitation itself matters. 

• Acknowledge their role: A simple “I see what you’re doing, and it’s incredible” can mean the world. 
  
  

Caring for Dad was hard, but I would do it all again. Love makes the hard parts worth it. – Amelia, TAS

An informal carer’s work is measured not in hours but in moments of kindness, patience, and deep love. Their dedication often comes without fanfare, yet their role is essential to the dignity and comfort of those they care for. As a community, we owe them our recognition, support, and gratitude every day.