Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in their caring roles.
What is it?
Carer Gateway is a national support service funded by the Australian Government, dedicated to improving the wellbeing of carers. Our communities are strongest when everyone is strong.
Caring for someone in your family or community can be tough. Whether you’re caring for Nan or Pop, someone with disability or a health concern, or anyone who needs day-to-day support, there is help available.
We provide assistance for all ‘unpaid’ carers, including both young and old. Carers may receive other payments and still access Carer Gateway services.
As the lead service provider for Carer Gateway in Victoria, Merri Health has the responsibility to ensure that our services are accessible, providing carers with the necessary tools and resources to manage their roles effectively, reduce stress, and plan for the future in a culturally appropriate manner.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can be involved without a referral. Call our team to register.
Location
Our office is located at Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, Chifley Dr | Preston
We also provide services over the phone or at a location that is convenient to you.
More information
Anyone may become an unpaid carer even temporarily. Carers can be any age and could be caring for anyone, a parent, friend, child, sibling or neighbour. It may be because they have disability, a medical condition, mental illness or are frail due to age.
We provide support services that are tailored to your individual caring needs. These may include:
Coaching: Reflect on how your caring role impacts your life and learn new ways to manage stress and improve your wellbeing.
- Self-guided coaching – undertake online interactive courses.
Counselling: If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, sad or frustrated, a professional counsellor can talk with you about your worries and offer help. Reflect on how your caring role impacts your life and learn new ways to manage stress and improve your wellbeing.
- Self-guided coaching
- In-person
- Phone counselling
- Emergency respite
- Planned respite
Peer Support: Meet with people in similar caring situations and share your stories, knowledge and experience.
- In-person
- Online forum
- Online skill courses
Tailored support packages: Get tailored support to assist you in your caring role.
- One-off practical support in the form of equipment or an item to assist you in your caring role.
- A range of ongoing practical supports, such as planned respite or transport, provided over a twelve-month period.
Support for young carers: Young carers can face unique challenges. Carer Gateway supports young carers to manage their caring responsibilities and assist with daily tasks, helping them to stay in school and connected with other young carers and the community.
Activities, events, workshops and carer engagement: Connect with other carers, socialise and share your experience and learn practical information to support you in your caring role.
You can learn more by visiting Carer Gateway First Nations or by calling Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm local time. You can also click the link to register your caring role and request a callback.
Merri Health acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government for the Support for Carers Program.
