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Carer support
There are a wide range of programs available that give carers time off, free from responsibilities, for a few hours or even a few days.
Respite care – substitute care (more information)
This type of respite care can be provided for an emergency situation, a special event and/or on a regular basis depending on your needs and the needs of the person you are caring for.National Respite for Carers Program (more information)
This Program allows carers of older people to have a break to look after their own health and wellbeing.Read more: About the National Respite for Carers Program
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 that are available locally and nationally. Centres provide information about services for older people, people with disability and those who provide care and services. Centres can also help carers with options to take a break through short-term and emergency respite (based on assessed need) and provide advice on and coordinate access to respite services in a carer’s local area.For information call 1800 200 422. For emergency respite support outside standard business hours, Centres can be contacted on 1800 059 059.
Home and Community Care Program
Other services for carers are available through the Home and Community Care (HACC) Program, which aims to provide a basic range of maintenance and support services to help people stay at home.Read more: About the Home and Community Care Program
Financial help for carers
Financial help for carers includes:- the Carer Payment, which provides an income support payment (similar to a pension) for people whose caring responsibilities prevent them from significantly participating in the workforce, and
- the Carer Allowance, which provides an income support (similar to a pension) for people who provide daily care for someone with a disability or severe medical condition, for six months or more.
Common questions on this topic:
- I am currently looking after my mother and am finding it a real handful on top of a full working week. Will I ever get a break!?
- How can I get in touch with other young people who are carers?
- How do I find out about services for carers?
See more common questions on this topic | See all common questions