Support for Carers - Australia
Please find a brief overview of additional support services on this page that are available in Australia.
Carers with Accredicare certifications are also welcome to contact us directly if you want additional support in using your accreditation.
Financial & Carer Support
There are many support services available to carers and those who are being cared for. A range of these networks and corresponding information is provided below.
Financial support services are available through Services Australia. Please note that Accredicare certifications are independent and distinct from Centrelink carer statuses.
To find out more about government financial support, please visit Services Australia.
Additionally, Carers Australia provides an overview of available payments as well as their eligibility criteria.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The NDIS helps connect anyone with disabilities to their communities, including services and support networks. They provide an easy and invaluable resource in helping those with disabilities acquire skills, jobs and tools to achieve greater independence and quality of life.
If you have a disability or are caring for another who does, you may be eligible for NDIS funding.
For more information, please visit the NDIS.
My Aged Care
If you are looking for a carer or aged care homes, My Aged Care has many resources which may be of assistance.
For a personalised 4-step guide to the type of care you are looking for, take a short quiz to find out more about your options here.
Individuals may also be eligible for entry level Home Care Packages. To apply for this programme, please complete My Aged Care’s assessment here to organise a meeting with an assessor.
Care Services Australia
For services such as nursing assistance, home maintenance, therapy services and more, Care Services Australia offers a wide range of packages to meet your needs.
To learn more about the services and help offered, visit Care Services Australia.
Care Connect
Care Connect offers personalised social support services such as gardening, home maintenance as well as personal care.
Please visit their website for more information.
Disability Gateway
For a comprehensive overview of health, education, employment and other services, please visit Disability Gateway.
Little Dreamers
Australia’s leading support network for young carers aged 25 years and younger, Little Dreamers offers tailored experiences, school holiday events, tuition as well as other support services, including the Job Readiness Project, to young carers around Australia.
Respite Care
Others who you trust may also be able to provide care in place of yourself so that you can take a break. This can be for short periods of time, such as a few hours a week, or for longer periods, such as one or two days a week.
Services such as My Aged Care and the NDIS also offer respite care services. If you require temporary or extended carer support, you may wish to apply through their respective sites.
Carer Respite Breaks
If you are currently receiving carer payments, you may also be eligible for respite breaks. Carers are able to continue receiving Centrelink Carer support payments whilst on break for up to 63 calendar days every year.
From Services Australia:
While you’re having a break, the person getting care can either be: in formal respite care; at home or elsewhere or looked after by a friend, neighbour or family member.
Emergency Respite Care
If you are incapacitated or suddenly unable to provide care, you may be eligible for Emergency Respite Care from Carer Gateway. Alternatively, contact Carer Gateway directly on 1800 422 737.
Carer Gateway recommends formulating an Emergency Care Plan to prepare for such times and to streamline the process in case of emergencies.
