The extraordinary contribution of carers across Western Australia is being recognised as part of National Carers Week with the theme ‘Care for a Carer: Making Carers visible.’
Carers provide unpaid care, support and assistance to family members or friends that need help with everyday life due to disability, mental health, health or age-related conditions, terminal illness, or alcohol or drug dependency.
Running from 11 to 17 October 2026, National Carers Week raises awareness of the vital role carers play in communities across Australia.
In Western Australia, an estimated 320,000 people provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend. Many carers don’t identify themselves as carers and may not be aware of the support available.
A better understanding of carers, caring roles and experiences across communities and workplaces is vital to building inclusive communities that acknowledge and value carers and helps people access the right supports at the right times.
In recognition of this, a discussion paper has been launched as part of the development of the new WA Carers Strategy. The paper closes out public consultation, and looks to build a deeper understanding on several topics that have arisen throughout the consultation process.
Everyone is welcome to make a submission. Western Australian carers, people receiving care, organisations that support carers and community groups are especially encouraged to share their views before submissions close on 12 November 2026.
More details on the discussion paper and public consultation can be found on the website at Developing a new Carers Strategy for Western Australia.
