Maureen’s story
We support each other. We see each other every month, and anybody can ring me up anytime just to talk.
Call Carer Gateway for support and services. Select option 1 to speak with your local service provider.
1800 422 737 Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm local time
In an emergency or if someone is in danger Triple Zero 000
If you are in crisis, anxious or depressed and want to talk with someone Lifeline 13 11 14 for anyone
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 for people aged 5 to 25
If you suddenly find you can’t provide care, for example if you become ill or injured, call Carer Gateway for emergency respite.
1800 422 737 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
We support each other. We see each other every month, and anybody can ring me up anytime just to talk.
‘I do it because I love Edie, that’s my commitment to her.’
Australian has a wide range of support for carers, including counselling, equipment, help at home or respite care. But one of the most common complaints from carers is that it can be hard to know where to get the help you need.
'Self preservation is essential. You have to step back sometimes, even if it’s just for a small amount of time.'
‘I just like to see my daughters be happy within themselves to know that they have got a mum as a carer.’
‘I have found caring can be done long-term, it can be done well. But it is done best when it’s shared.’
‘Respite’ or ‘respite care’ is when someone else takes care of the person you care for, so that you can have a break. A break can give you time to do everyday activities, deal with stress and look after yourself. When you are a carer, it’s important to regularly take time for yourself to rest and recharge.
Emergencies can happen anytime. If you are a carer, planning for emergencies will help you to cope even when things go wrong.
As a carer, you’ll often put the needs of the person you care for before your own needs. It’s OK to look after yourself too.