Carer Gateway supports over one million visitors

Ms Henderson will speak today at a Carers Week celebration and information session hosted by the Aireys Inlet Carer Support Group in Lorne, Victoria.

She is urging all carers to take care of themselves during Carers Week and take the first step to see what supports and services are available for them through Carer Gateway.

The Australian Government’s Carer Gateway website designed to support Australia’s 2.7 million unpaid carers with practical information and support has reached over one million visitors today.

Assistant Minister for Social Services, Housing and Disability Services Sarah Henderson is delighted to see carers embracing the national service since its launch in December 2015.

“During Carers Week, we are recognising the outstanding contribution of exceptional people who care for their fellow Australians due to disability, age, mental illness or long term physical illness.

“While caring can be fulfilling, we know that daily caregiving responsibilities can sometimes prevent carers from being able to work, study or simply enjoy a healthy, active life.

“Carer Gateway provides one convenient avenue for hardworking and time poor carers to obtain practical information and advice. The Carer Gateway makes it easier for carers to find supports available to them through the federal, state and local systems.

“The Carer Gateway service was a key component of the Government’s 2015-16 Budget commitment to improve supports for carers. An additional $85.6 million was also announced earlier this year to continue delivering much needed early-intervention services for Australia’s unpaid carers.

“Right now we are designing and testing with carers a range of new online supports such as peer support, counselling and educational resources which will be rolled out through the Carer Gateway website,” Ms Henderson said.

Carer Gateway is available at www.carergateway.gov.au or by phoning 1800 422 737 between 8am-6pm on weekdays.