International Day of Care and Support recognises the essential role of care and support in sustaining individuals, families, communities, and economies. The day highlights the value of unpaid and paid care work and the need for systems that support carers across all stages of life.
Why it matters
- Care and support underpin daily life, from caring for children and people with disability to supporting older adults and those with illness or injury.
- Much care work is unpaid and often invisible, leading to financial strain, burnout and reduced well-being for carers.
- Carers frequently balance care responsibilities with employment, health challenges and family commitments.
- A lack of adequate support can result in isolation, stress and long-term disadvantage for carers.
- Recognising care as essential work helps drive better policies, workplace flexibility and access to support services.
- Awareness encourages shared responsibility and planning so care does not fall on one person alone.
International Day of Care and Support highlights the need to value care, support carers and plan for care needs across the lifespan.
Event Co-ordination / Support
International
- United Nations
Global body recognising International Day of Care and Support and promoting policies that value care and support work worldwide.
Australia
- Carers Australia
National organisation representing and supporting unpaid carers through advocacy, resources and services.
