Who are Carers

Who Are Carers?

Carers are people who provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or who are frail aged.

What Do Carers Do?

Caring may include help and support with daily activities, management of health and other services, administering medications and providing emotional and social support.

Carers are an integral part of Australia’s health system and are the foundation of our aged, disability, palliative and community care systems. Their contributions are often overlooked, underappreciated or misunderstood.

National Carer Strategy 2024 - 2034

Facts

3 million carers in Australia – 1.2 million are primary carers
54% of all carers are women
758,000 are 65 years or older
76,000 are First Nations
2 in 5 have a disability themselves
391,000 are under the age of 25
Cost to replace unpaid carers in Australia is $77.9 Billion

What we know from carers surveyed

An aging population means that demand for carers will increase by 23% by 2030
Caring is often not a choice and can impose a significant burden, particularly on young carers
Carers make a profound contribution to society and should be recognised for this
Taking on a caring role impacts a carer’s own quality of life and freedom of choice
Carers are significantly impacted physically, psychologically, socially and financially
Carers experience emotional stress, anxiety, depression and compassion fatigue.
Carers need breaks to rest, manage stress and attend to personal tasks, but services are lacking

Recognition for Carers

“… the wellbeing of carers is just as important as the wellbeing of those they care for. Their contribution is immeasurable and supporting their ongoing health, wellbeing and ability to participate in all aspects of their community deserves our attention and support.”

~The Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP. Minister of Social Services

National Carer Strategy 2024 – 2034