They provide a range of services designed to support carers in their vital roles.
Vision and mission
Their vision is to create an Australia that values and supports all carers. Their mission is to support, connect, and empower carers to maintain their wellbeing and continue in their caring roles. They work to ensure carers’ voices are heard and represented in service delivery, policy development, and community dialogue.
How Carers ACT can help
They offer a variety of services tailored to carers' needs, including:
- Counselling and Coaching: Professional support to help carers manage stress and navigate their caring roles.
- Respite Care: Short-term breaks through in-home support or at our respite cottages.
- Educational Workshops: Programs to enhance carers' skills and knowledge.
- Social and Therapeutic Activities: Opportunities for carers to connect and rejuvenate.
- Advocacy: Representing carers' interests to influence policy and service development.
Information / help lines
Carer Gateway: 1800 422 737 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm AEST). After-hours calls are automatically transferred to the national line.
Carers ACT Office: (02) 6296 9900 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm AEST)
Programs, apps and tools
Dementia Support Programs
- Staying at Home: A fully funded 4-week program culminating in an overnight retreat, providing practical education and advice from dementia care experts, group activities, and an introduction to respite services.
- SPICE for Life: A 10-week program combining enjoyable activities like storytelling, music, and games with gentle exercises and facilitated peer support groups designed to promote cognitive stimulation and physical well-being.
- Cottage Respite Program: Flexible, affordable respite options allow carers to take a break while their loved ones receive attentive care in a safe, welcoming environment.
The Hub (Disability Day Program)
- Designed for individuals aged 18 to 50 with mild to medium cognitive disabilities, this program aims to enhance social and independent living skills, develop interests and abilities, and encourage community participation. Activities include cooking, music, yoga, photography, and more.
Community Assistance and Temporary Supports (CATS) Program
- Provides temporary services to help individuals be discharged safely from the hospital or remain at home while recovering from illness, injury, or other health issues. Services include in-home support to prevent hospital admissions and assist with recovery.
Carer Gateway Services
- As the local service delivery partner for the Carer Gateway in the ACT, Carers ACT offers various services, including counselling, coaching, emergency respite, peer support, and access to practical advice and resources.
Young Carers Program
- Tailored support for young individuals with caring responsibilities, providing resources and assistance to help balance their caring role with education and personal development.
Wellness Guide
- A resource designed to help carers maintain their health and well-being, offering tips and strategies for self-care and stress management.
Mental Health Carer Navigation Website
- An online resource to help mental health carers navigate the mental health system in the ACT, including information about services, carer rights, and support options.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement
- Carers ACT actively advocates to ensure carers' voices are heard in policy development and service planning, including participation in the development of the ACT Carers Recognition Act 2021.
