This blog post provides a recap of our webinar which explores the supports available with Carer Gateway

Carers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with cerebral palsy, but their own well-being often takes a backseat. In a recent My CP Guide webinar, Debbie Atherton, a partnership specialist from Carer Gateway, provided an in-depth look at the services and support available to carers across Australia.

Who is a Carer?

One of the key points Debbie highlighted was that many people providing care don’t identify as carers—instead, they see themselves as a parent, partner, or family member. However, recognising this role is essential to accessing support.

"Anybody who provides care and support for a loved one with a disability, mental health condition, chronic illness, or age-related condition is considered a carer and is eligible for Carer Gateway support," Debbie explained. She also emphasised that carers can be any age and do not need to live with the person they support.

Carer Gateway is separate from the NDIS and My Aged Care, as it focuses specifically on supporting the carer rather than the person receiving care. Importantly, there is no means testing, and services are open to visa holders and refugees.

Support Available Through Carer Gateway

Carer Gateway provides a range of services, ensuring that carers have access to the help they need at different stages of their journey.

1. Emergency Respite Care

For carers facing unexpected emergencies, Carer Gateway can arrange for a care worker to step in and provide temporary support. Debbie stressed how vital this can be:

"We've had carers delay hospital visits because they had no one to look after their loved one. Emergency respite ensures that carers can take care of themselves without worrying about the person they support."

2. Tailored Support Packages

Carers can apply for two types of tailored support packages:

• Practical Support – Help with household tasks, personal care, or respite services, providing carers with a much-needed break.
• Educational & Employment Support – Funding for training courses, electronic devices, driving lessons, and even tutoring for young carers.

"For young carers under 25, this package can be used for tutoring support, helping them stay on track with their education despite their caregiving responsibilities," Debbie noted.

3. Peer Support Groups

Feeling isolated is a common experience for carers, which is why Carer Gateway offers peer support groups. These sessions provide a chance to connect with others, share experiences, and access emotional support.

"We run groups for different carer cohorts, including Aboriginal carers, men’s groups, and carers supporting someone with autism. If there’s enough interest, we can create a group specifically for carers of people with cerebral palsy," Debbie shared.

4. Counseling and Coaching

Carers can access up to six free counseling sessions per year, helping them cope with stress, anxiety, or challenges related to their role.

Additionally, Carer Gateway offers facilitated coaching, which focuses on personal growth and self-care. Debbie explained, "Coaching is about unlocking your potential—it’s not just about the caring role but about helping you as a person."

5. Young Carer Program

Carer Gateway recognises that young people who take on caregiving responsibilities need support, too. Programs include:

• School holiday camps
• Social outings like go-karting and cooking classes
• Career-building opportunities such as barista and RSA courses
• Bursaries of up to $2,000 to assist with education

Debbie emphasised the importance of supporting young carers, stating, "Many young carers struggle to talk about their experiences with school friends. Our programs provide a safe space where they can connect with others who understand."

6. Emergency Care Planning

One of the most valuable tools offered is the Emergency Care Plan, which helps carers prepare for unexpected situations. This document includes:

• Medical details and daily routines of the person receiving care
• Emergency contact numbers
• A wallet card identifying the carer and backup support contacts

"Having this plan in place can make all the difference if something happens to you unexpectedly," Debbie advised.

How to Access Carer Gateway Services

Registering with Carer Gateway is simple. Carers can call 1800 422 737 or fill out an online referral at https://www.carergateway.gov.au/. After registration, a staff member conducts an individual needs assessment to tailor services to the carer’s situation.

Every few months, Carer Gateway checks in with carers to review their needs. "We want to ensure that carers feel supported and that their situation is improving over time," Debbie explained.

Conclusion

Carer Gateway offers comprehensive, flexible support for those caring for people with cerebral palsy and other conditions. Whether through emergency respite, coaching, peer support, or practical assistance, these services aim to reduce stress, improve well-being, and empower carers to balance their responsibilities.

"Caring for a loved one is both rewarding and challenging. Our goal is to make sure carers are supported so they don’t have to navigate this journey alone," Debbie concluded.

Watch the replay of this webinar now on My CP Guide: Webinar: Carer Gateway - services and supports for carers of people with cerebral palsy

Visit the Carer Gateway website for more information about their programs for carers: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/