How you can support carers this National Carers Week and beyond
This National Carers Week (10–16 October 2025), the spotlight is on the three million Australians who quietly provide unpaid care for a family member or friend. The latest Carer Wellbeing Survey shows many are feeling the strain — with rising levels of stress, loneliness, and financial pressure. While systemic change is essential, there are small, meaningful ways we can all show carers that their work is seen, valued, and supported. Here’s how you can make a difference, day to day.
Check-in regularly
Show your support by keeping in touch with carers. You can:
- Encourage them to talk about their experiences if it helps.
- Validate their feelings without judgment.
- Avoid discussing sensitive matters in front of the person they care for — it could make them uncomfortable.
Offer a break
Give carers a chance to recharge. You can:
- Run errands or help with household chores like laundry, cleaning, cooking, budgeting, or shopping.
- Plan a social activity together — even something simple, like a walk or grabbing a coffee.
Acknowledge and appreciate
Recognise the exceptional role carers play. You can:
- Express gratitude with a simple, personalised note or video message.
- Be a compassionate, empathetic listener.
- Let them know you see their efforts and everything they do.
- Invite them for a cuppa and a chat.
Initiate support
Carers often prioritise the wellbeing of the person they care for over their own. You can:
- Ask how you can help — and really listen to what they need.
- Don’t assume you know the best way to support them.
Encourage self-care
Remind carers to prioritise their own physical and mental health. You can:
- Highlight free support available through Carer Gateway.
- Share helpful resources such as health apps, wellbeing tools, or support groups.
- Encourage outdoor activity — go for a walk together.
- If you’re an employer, offer flexible work arrangements.
Visit carersweek.com.au to learn more about how you can show carers you care.
