National Carers Week is under way across Australia, running from 11 to 17 October to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness of the more than 3 million Australians who provide unpaid care to a family member or friend.

A Week Built Around Visibility

Led by Carers Australia, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and coordinated with the National Carer Network, the initiative carries the 2026 theme "Care for a carer: Making carers visible." The theme encourages people to recognise and support carers within their families, workplaces and communities. Carers assist people living with disability, mental health conditions, chronic or terminal illness, alcohol or other drug issues, or frailty due to age, and anyone can become a carer at any time.

Events and Landmark Light-Ups

Community organisations have listed events nationwide, including Coffee Catch Ups in capital cities, a Carers High Tea Celebration at NSW Parliament House on 15 October, and online webinars on topics such as balancing work and care. Landmarks including Brisbane's Story Bridge, Sydney's Luna Park, Perth's Optus Stadium and Canberra's Old Parliament House are also set to light up in recognition of carers.

Practical Ways to Help

Organisers highlight five everyday actions: checking in regularly, offering a break, acknowledging and appreciating, initiating support and encouraging self-care. The Carer Wellbeing Survey found that carers with good access to support reported healthy levels of wellbeing, compared with those who had limited or no access to help. Carer Gateway offers information and advice on available supports at carergateway.gov.au.

A Psychological Perspective

Carers often put the person they care for ahead of their own needs and may hesitate to ask for help because of guilt, shame or fear of judgement, according to National Carers Week materials. "Caring can be deeply meaningful, but sustained responsibility without rest can affect mood, sleep and relationships," said a spokesperson for MLA Psychology. "Asking a carer what they need, rather than assuming, is a simple step that helps make their role visible."

About MLA Psychology

MLA Psychology is a Queensland-based mental health service offering in-person and telehealth support across the Gold Coast and beyond, working with clients of all ages.

More information about National Carers Week is available at carersweek.com.au.