Supporting carers

Support for carers

There are approximately 3 million Australians who care for someone with disability, a medical condition, mental illness or someone who is frail due to age. The Australian Government helps carers remain engaged in the community, participate in the workforce and stay healthy while continuing their caring role. It does this by funding a range of supports, services and financial assistance.

Carer Gateway

Research shows that helping carers manage their daily challenges can make a big difference to their lives and improve overall health and wellbeing.

The Australian Government's Carer Gateway helps carers get the support they need before reaching crisis point. Carer Gateway provides a range of early intervention, preventative and tailored supports and services to help carers manage their daily challenges, reduce stress and plan for the future.

Learn more about Carer Gateway.

Financial support for young carers

The Young Carer Bursary Program helps young carers to study and manage their caring roles by reducing their need to work.

Learn more about financial support for young carers.

National Carer Strategy

The National Carer Strategy will provide a national framework to support Australia's unpaid carers.

Learn more about the National Carer Strategy.

Programs and services

Carers may be able to access support through programs and services.

Payments

If you are a carer, Services Australia may be able to provide some financial assistance. Eligibility will depend on your situation and needs.

You may also be eligible for: 

• Bereavement Payment(Opens in a new tab/window) 
• Pensioner Education Supplement(Opens in a new tab/window) 
• Pharmaceutical Allowance(Opens in a new tab/window) 
• Rent Assistance(Opens in a new tab/window) 
• Companion card 

Carer Adjustment Payment claims

We assess claims for the Carer Adjustment Payment on a case-by-case basis.  

Learn more about the claiming process for Carer Adjustment Payments. 

Guide to the list of recognised disabilities 

Recognised disabilities as determined by the Secretary of the Department of Social Services. 

View the guide to the list of recognised disabilities. 

More information

• visit your nearest Services Australia office(Opens in a new tab/window) 
• phone 132 717 
• visit Centrelink payments(Opens in a new tab/window).