Carers are an essential part of our community, providing unpaid care for family, friends and neighbours, or for children who are unable to live with their families. Sometimes their caring role may affect carers’ own wellbeing and capacity to live a full and rewarding life. It is important that the valuable contribution of carers is recognised by the wider community.

The ACT government has partnered with Carers ACT to develop the ACT Carers Strategy 2018–2028. The strategy provides a framework to support and recognise the work of carers, acknowledging the difference they make in our community and responding to key challenges faced by carers.

This first three-year Action Plan under the strategy was developed by the Carers Strategy Taskforce, a collaboration between representatives from government, the community sector and the carer community. The Taskforce used a deliberative approach that ensured diverse voices were heard and encouraged robust and informed discussion of actions to best support carers.