First 5 – a checklist for new carers
If you have just started to care for someone, we know you will have many things to do and think about.
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
If you have just started to care for someone, we know you will have many things to do and think about.
Once you have some of the key supports in place, it’s a good idea to look around and see what else you can do or think about to make your life easier – both now and in the future.
You can do this. You don’t have to know everything all at once. You can get help.
You may not be able to prevent emergencies. Accidents, illness, life events and disasters can happen to anyone.
An emergency care plan has all the information about the person you care for in one place, so you can get it quickly and easily.
We know it takes strength and courage to be a carer. And we know that, when you are caring for someone, it’s just as important to care for yourself.
Try these exercises to help you relax anytime, anywhere.
Emergencies can happen anytime. If you are a carer, planning for emergencies will help you to cope even when things go wrong.