National Carers Week is an Australian awareness week that recognises and celebrates the vital role of unpaid carers who support family members and friends with disability, chronic illness, mental health conditions, ageing or end-of-life needs. It highlights the contribution carers make to families, communities and the broader health and care system.
Why this matters
- Unpaid carers provide essential support that often replaces or supplements formal health and care services.
- Many carers balance caring responsibilities with work, parenting and financial pressures, often at personal cost.
- Carers are at higher risk of burnout, social isolation and declining physical and mental health.
- Caring roles are frequently invisible, unrecognised or misunderstood.
- Better awareness supports earlier access to respite, services and practical assistance.
Recognising carers helps ensure they are supported, valued and not left to manage complex responsibilities alone.
Event Co-ordination / Support
Australia
- Carers Australia
National peak body representing unpaid carers, advocating for recognition, support and improved policies while providing information and resources for carers across Australia.
