Are you a carer?
You may be, even if you've never used the word.
Many Australians who care for a partner, parent, child or friend with a disability, illness or ageing-related condition don't think of themselves as a "carer." They may think they're just doing what family does. The word matters because it unlocks support.
A carer is anyone who…
- Helps a family member or friend with daily living because of illness, disability, age or mental health
- Manages medications, appointments or paperwork for them
- Helps with showering, dressing, feeding, or moving
- Provides emotional support and supervision
- Coordinates care from other people or services
It doesn't matter if you live with them or not. It doesn't matter if you're paid or not (most carers are not). It doesn't matter how many hours. If you do this, you are a carer.
Why naming it matters
Calling yourself a carer can open doors: free counselling, peer support, respite, training, financial help, and someone to call when it's too much. Many of these are harder to access if you keep telling people, "Oh, I'm fine, I'm just helping out."
See all 53 guides in Care & end of life →
From bluetulipco.com/library/end-of-life/are-you-a-carer — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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