Dear Carers,

As 2023 comes to a close, I’m moved by the incredible resilience and compassion our carer community has shown. Amidst adversity, your unwavering dedication to care has been our guiding light. This year, more than ever, has notably highlighted the strength of collaboration and partnership.

We’ve seen the Carer Collective become a pivotal platform for policy change, complemented by our progress in mental health and foster care. Our new role in the Community Assistance and Temporary Supports (CATS) Program has been crucial in providing essential short-term support to help you or the person you care for stay well at home and transition safely if hospital care is needed.

Our advocacy extended to the Carer Recognition Act 2010 review, the Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation and participation in the 2023 Carer Wellbeing Survey. Your voice echoed loudly, helping us understand and advocate for your needs more effectively. The recent release of the NDIS Review marks an important step in our advocacy efforts, reflecting both progress and ongoing challenges. We plan to provide a detailed and thoughtful examination of the review’s potential impacts early in the new year.

We’re excited to share with you our 2022-2023 Annual Report, detailing Carers ACT’s achievements and the positive impact on our carer community. This success stems from the unwavering support of our government partners, dedicated volunteers, and the resilient carer community itself. For a comprehensive look at our journey and accomplishments over the past year, I encourage you to explore the report.

As the festive season unfolds, we understand the unique mix of joys and challenges it brings for carers. Our commitment is to be there for you during these times, and always. Our ‘Carer’s Guide to Respite and Wellbeing’ is a resource crafted to offer support and guidance now, and throughout the year.

As we look to 2024, we’re excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for us to continue this impactful work, hand in hand, and deliver on our promise to support, connect and empower carers in all that we do.

Should you need any assistance over the holiday period, please reach out to us through the Carer Gateway at 1800 422 737, our office line at 6296 9900, or email us at carers@carersact.org.au

On behalf of the Board and entire Carers ACT team, thank you for the kindness and care you tirelessly provide. Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and well-deserved rest.

Here’s to a new year filled with hope, support and wellbeing.

Warm regards,

Lisa Kelly
CEO