Carer Gateway is a nationwide program that aims to support the wellbeing of carers of all ages, including young carers.
Funded by the Australian Government, Carer Gateway delivers a range of services in-person, by phone, and online. No referral is required. There is no citizenship, residency, or specific visa requirement to be eligible for the program.
Who is a Carer
Many people don’t see themselves as carers. They see themselves as just siblings, parents, partners, other relatives or friends who care for someone close to them.
Carers suitable for the program are those looking after a family member or a friend with a disability, a medical condition, a mental illness, a drug or alcohol condition or who are frail due to age.
How Carer Gateway Makes a Difference in the Lives of Carer’s
Carer Gateway can provide a range of services and supports to assist carers. This includes Peer Support, Carer Directed Packages for practical and other support, Counselling, Coaching, and Online Courses to upskill carers, and Emergency Respite.
- In-person and online peer support groups – you might like to meet with people like you who care for someone and share stories, knowledge and experience. You can do this with people in your area or you can join the carer forum online.
- Tailored support packages – you may be able to get a range of practical supports like planned respite and transport services to help you in your caring role.
- In-person, online and phone counselling – if you are feeling stressed, anxious, sad or frustrated, a counsellor can talk with you either in person or over the phone in the comfort of your own home.
- In-person, online and phone coaching – you can talk to a professional coach to reflect on your experience and needs, identify personal goals and create a plan to reach these goals, or you can work through interactive online coaching sessions at your own pace. There are a range of topics to help you in your caring role.
- Online skills courses to support your wellbeing and your understanding of legal responsibilities relating to the caring role.
- Access to emergency respite if you suddenly find you can’t provide care, for example if you become ill or injured. Service providers will find ways to look after the person you care for while you recover.
How Do I Register for Carer Gateway
Simply call 1800 422 737 and press 1 (Mon-Fri) between 8am – 5.00pm and speak to a Carer Gateway representative who can assist you. More information is available via: www.carergateway.gov.au