There are 2.65 million informal carers across Australia.
These are people who provide care to a family member or friend living with a disability, medical condition, mental health condition, or who is frail due to age.
If you know or come across a carer, you can support them by telling them about Carer Gateway.
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government initiative providing support and services for informal carers to help them look after their own emotional health and wellbeing.
Support and services offered through the gateway are free and include:
- practical supports such as assistance with groceries, shopping, cooking, cleaning and gardening
- planned respite, transport and emergency respite
- assistance to purchase technology to connect with school and/or employment
- a range of services to support carer wellbeing, including counselling, peer support sessions and carer coaching.
Carers can contact Carer Gateway via the website or call 1800 422 737, Monday to Friday between 8 am and 5 pm local time.