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Associations and support groups
There are a wide range of programs and associations available that offer support groups and give carers time off, free from responsibilities, for a few hours or even a few days.
- Carers Australia
- Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres (more information)
- Carer support groups
- National Respite for Carers Program (more information)
- Home and Community Care Program (more information)
- National Carer Counselling Program (more information)
Carers Australia
Carers Australia represents carers of people with a disability, mental illness, chronic condition or those who are frail or aged. It also provides information, support, education, training and counselling. Contact the Network of Carer Associations in each state and territory on 1800 242 636*.Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres located across Australia, provide a link to a wide range of community, aged care and support services available locally or anywhere in Australia.Centres provide information about services for older people, people with a disability, and those who provide care and services, and can also assist carers with options to take a break through short-term and emergency respite services, based on assessed need. Centres provide advice on and coordinate access to respite services in a carer’s local area (more information).
For information phone 1800 200 422* during business hours or, for emergency respite support outside standard business hours phone 1800 059 059*.
Carer support groups
Carer support groups provide emotional support to carers, and are sometimes organised around specific conditions. For information about these groups in your area refer you to other organisations like the Alzheimer’s Association or Multiple Sclerosis Society, which also offer support or call 1800 200 422.National Respite for Carers Program
This program allows carers of older people to have a break to look after their own health and well-being.Read more: About the National Respite for Carers Program
Home and Community Care (HACC) Program
Other services for carers are available through the Home and Community Care (HACC) Program, aimed at supporting frailer older people and their carers in the community.Read more: About the Home and Community Care Program
National Carer Counselling Program (NCCP)
The National Carer Counselling Program provides short-term counselling and emotional and psychological support services for carers. This aims to help reduce carer stress, improve carer coping skills and facilitate, wherever appropriate, continuation of the caring role. The NCCP is delivered through the Network of Carer Associations in each state and territory. For information call 1800 200 422*.* (calls from mobile phones charged at applicable rate)
Common questions on this topic:
- How do I find services to help me look after someone with dementia?
- Dad turns his hearing aid off because it 'annoys him' and has missed collecting his Meals on Wheels because he didn't hear the doorbell or the 'phone. Is there anything we can do?
See all common questions