Care Navigator

This is a simple guide to Carer Gateway. It is a free government program that helps people who look after a family member or friend.

If you take care of someone who is sick, elderly, or has a disability, this program is for you.

It is a service that looks after your health and wellbeing. It does not look after the person you care for—it helps you, the carer.

💰 It is 100% free. You will never be asked to pay.
🔒 It is safe. Using it will not change your Centrelink payments or your loved one’s care packages.

A Break from Caring (Respite): They can pay for a support worker to look after your loved one so you can rest, go to the doctor, or go shopping.
Emergency Help: If you get sick or have an accident, they can quickly send someone to care for your loved one.
Money Help: They can sometimes give you a financial package to buy items that make your life easier, like a tablet, a training course, or extra cleaning help.
Someone to Talk To: You can get free, private counselling to talk about your stress and feelings.

Call them: Call 1800 422 737 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm). If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 first and ask them to call Carer Gateway.
Answer easy questions: A friendly worker will talk to you on the phone. They will ask how you are coping, how you are sleeping, and what would make your life easier.
Get your support: The worker will create a plan and organize the free services to help you.