Carer Support
If you care for a person with care needs, it helps to know what supports are available. There are a range of services and programs that can help you find the support you need and connect with other carers in your local area.
Neighbourhood Houses Barwon created the Surf Coast Carers Network and a Carers Resource Guide to support carers to navigate resources and connect with other carers. Link with other carers via the Surf Coast Carers Network Facebook Page
Download the Carers Resource Guide and Facebook network link here(PDF, 13MB)
Find out more about Carer programs below:
Carer Gateway
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers.
If you care for a family member or friend with disability, a medical condition, mental illness, or who is frail due to age, then Carer Gateway can help you.
Contact Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 and select option 1 to connect you’re your local service provider Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm local time.
Emergency respite
If you suddenly find you can’t provide care, for example if you become ill or injured, call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for help with accessing emergency respite.
Carer Friendly Places
Carers Victoria in collaboration with Surf Coast Shire and Neighbourhgood Houses Victoria have created inclusive environments for carers.
Visit our carer friendly places to learn more about carer supports and connecting with other carers.
Deans Marsh Community Cottage
Torquay Community House
Carers Victoria
Carers Victoria is recognised and funded as the leading body for carers and caring families in Victoria.
Carers Victoria works collaboratively with Carers Australia and the other State and Territory based Carer Associations to represent and advocate and provide carer services on behalf of carers throughout Australia.
Carers Australia
Carers Australia is the national peak body representing Australia’s unpaid carers, advocating on their behalf to influence policies and services at a national level.
Visit Carers Australia to link in with carer information, programs and projects.
Carer Card Program
The Carer Card Program aims to recognise the incredible unpaid work that carers do in our community. The card provides discounts and benefits to carers in acknowledgement of this contribution.
Check your eligibility and apply online or call the Carer Card team on 1800 901 958.