This impact evaluation on the Integrated Carer Support Service (ICSS) – publicly known as Carer Gateway, was commissioned by the Department of Social Services to assess program appropriateness, effectiveness and efficiency. The evaluation draws on a mixed-methods approach and found all three objectives of the Carer Gateway have been met. The report details conclusions and implications of the evaluation’s findings.

The Carer Gateway provides supports and services to help carers manage their daily challenges, reduce stress and plan for the future. The objectives for ICSS are to improve carer wellbeing, increase their capacity, and support their participation, socially and economically; reinforce carer resilience through effective preventative support services, and restructure investment in carer support to increase cost effectiveness. 

It found carers were satisfied with the services they received, and the wellbeing and participation increased for most carers. The Gateway is cost-effective, and the benefits outweigh the costs according to a range of different analyses. The shift to preventive services does appear to be making a difference and there are indications that engagement with these services increases the resilience of carers.