Find support for yourself as a carer

At a glance

Carer support is for the person providing unpaid help as well as the person receiving care. You may need practical relief, information, someone to talk with or help planning for an emergency. Describe what would make your caring role more manageable.

Identify your own needs

Write down the time spent caring, tasks you cannot safely continue and appointments or activities you have stopped. Include sleep, work, other family responsibilities and money concerns. This is preparation for a support conversation, not a test you must pass.

Plan your next steps

Australia

Carer Gateway is an Australian Government programme offering carer services and support. Call 1800 422 737 to discuss eligibility and available options. Ask about counselling, peer support, planning and respite relevant to your situation.

United States

Use Eldercare Locator or your Area Agency on Aging to ask about local caregiver programmes, support groups, respite and information services. Availability and eligibility vary by location.

Before choosing support

What does the service offer, and is it suitable for my situation?
Is there a cost or eligibility assessment?
Can I access it by phone, online or in person?
Who can cover care while I attend?
What happens if I need urgent replacement care?

Questions and useful links

Prepare a backup plan

Name someone who can be contacted if you become ill, record essential care information and discuss what that person can actually do. Ask the service about alternatives if no family backup is available. Keep the plan accessible to the people who need it, with appropriate consent.

Do I need to be at breaking point?

No. Ask about support early, including planned breaks and practical changes. If distress or health problems are persistent, speak with your own health professional.

Recognise caregiver strain · Share family responsibilities · Find services

Sources and review

Carer Gateway. (n.d.). Carer Gateway. Accessed 19 September 2026.

Administration for Community Living. (n.d.). Eldercare Locator. Accessed 19 September 2026.

About this guide
Australia and United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.