Why Carer Support Matters
Across Australia, carers—both unpaid family members and paid support workers—play a critical role in supporting individuals with disabilities, chronic illness, or ageing-related needs. However, many carers are unaware of the resources for carers Australia offers to ease the physical, emotional, and financial pressures of daily care.
Whether you’re helping a loved one navigate the NDIS, managing personal care, or assisting with mobility equipment, knowing where to turn for practical tools, government programs, and community support can make a significant difference.
This guide outlines the top carer resources in Australia—from government portals to assistive technology, training platforms, and respite services—so you can feel more equipped and less overwhelmed in your role.
Government and NDIS Resources for Carers
The Australian Government provides several national programs to support carers:
1. Carer Gateway
Carer Gateway is a government-run portal offering counselling, coaching, emergency respite, and financial support. It’s a key point of access for all unpaid carers.
2. NDIS and Support Coordinators
If the person you care for is an NDIS participant, you may be eligible for funded services that indirectly benefit carers, including:
- Home modifications
- Assistive technology
- Short-term accommodation (respite)
- In-home support services
NDIS carers can also access guidance from support coordinators and allied health professionals to help manage care more sustainably. Learn more about NDIS disability equipment eligible for funding.
Support Organisations and Helplines
In addition to government services, many non-profit organisations offer resources and peer support for carers:
- Carers Australia – Advocacy, resources, and policy updates for carer wellbeing (https://www.carersaustralia.com.au)
- Young Carers Network – Support for young people providing care
- National Dementia Helpline – For carers of people living with cognitive decline
- Mind Australia and SANE – Mental health resources for carers
Need advice on choosing support equipment or accessing allied health professionals? Contact us today for personalised guidance.
Assistive Technology That Makes Life Easier
Caring for someone with mobility or medical needs can be physically demanding. Assistive technology helps reduce injury risk for both carers and care recipients, and promotes greater independence.
Recommended assistive products for carers include:
- Patient lifters and transfer devices
- Adjustable hospital-style beds
- Shower chairs and commodes
- Pressure care mattresses
- Mobility aids such as rollators, wheelchairs, and walkers
- Monitoring tools (fall sensors, alarms)
Explore our full range of assistive technology for carers and book a home trial to test equipment before purchase.
Financial Support and Respite Services
Carers may qualify for financial assistance or funded breaks through:
1. Carer Payment & Carer Allowance
Available through Services Australia, these payments support individuals who provide full-time care to someone with a severe medical condition or disability.
2. Respite Services
Funded short-term care allows carers to rest or attend appointments while ensuring the person they support receives safe supervision. You can access respite through:
- NDIS (Short-Term Accommodation)
- Commonwealth Respite Programs
- Carer Gateway Emergency Respite
Not sure what respite or therapy is available in your region? Reach out to your NDIS planner or our customer support team.
Online Platforms and Learning Tools
Being a carer often means learning on the go. These online resources help build your confidence and reduce stress:
- NDIS Participant Portal (MyPlace) – Track plans, supports, and budgets
- Carer Gateway Learning Courses – Self-paced learning for resilience, communication, and practical skills
- AssistiveTechHub Blog – Guides, equipment explainers, and funding tips for carers and participants
- Allied Health Support Platforms – Book assessments, therapy, or home trials
Looking for hands-on support? Learn how occupational therapists help carers recommend and trial equipment.
Conclusion
Being a carer in Australia comes with enormous responsibility—but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right tools, funding support, professional guidance, and emotional care, your role can become more manageable and sustainable.
At Assistive Tech Hub, we work closely with carers, allied health professionals, and NDIS participants to deliver NDIS-approved assistive technology, home trial services, and product guidance across Victoria and beyond.
- Explore assistive tools in our store
- Book a home trial for patient transfer aids, beds, and bathroom products
- Speak to our team to find the right solution for your caregiving needs
FAQs
What resources are available for carers in Australia?
Australian carers can access support through Carer Gateway, Carers Australia, NDIS-funded respite, financial assistance, and assistive technology providers like Assistive Tech Hub.
Can carers get help through the NDIS?
Yes. While the NDIS doesn’t directly fund carers, it provides indirect supports such as respite care, assistive equipment, and home modifications that ease the burden on carers.
What kind of equipment helps carers at home?
Popular equipment includes patient lifters, adjustable beds, commodes, wheelchairs, and shower aids. You can book a free trial of these products through our service.
Where can carers get emotional or mental health support?
You can contact Carer Gateway for counselling and peer support, or reach out to mental health organisations like SANE or Mind Australia for dedicated carer programs.
Is respite care available for unpaid carers?
Yes. Carers can access emergency or short-term respite care through NDIS, My Aged Care, and the Carer Gateway. These services offer a temporary break while ensuring continued support for the care recipient.
