The Australian Department of Social Services (DSS) is developing a new National Carer Strategy, and they want to hear from you! This is your chance to have your voice heard and ensure that the challenges, hopes, and dreams of Young Carers are front and center in this important plan. 

What is the National Carer Strategy?

The National Carer Strategy is a big plan designed to help people like you who care for family members who need support. The government wants to know what would make your life better, what support you need, and how they can help you balance caring with school, work, and life. This strategy is their way of saying, “We see you, we hear you, and we want to make your life better.” They’re working on a plan that covers everything from mental health support to education and job opportunities, to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to thrive, not just survive.

Why is Your Input Important?

You have a unique perspective that no one else does. Your experiences, challenges, and ideas can shape how carers are supported in the future. This is a chance to tell the government what matters most to you and how they can make things better for you and those you care for.

Why Now?

You might be wondering why this is happening now. Well, a lot has changed since the last time the government had a big plan for carers. With new systems like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and changes in aged care, the way carers like you are supported needs an update too. Plus, with more and more people needing care, especially as our population gets older, it’s super important to make sure carers are getting the help they need. This new strategy is all about making sure the support for carers keeps up with these changes, so you’re never left behind.

How can you get involved?

We would love for you to submit your experiences, thoughts and ideas by answering one or more of the questions below. You can do this in a few different ways:

• Written response (maximum 1,000 words)
• Artwork
• Recording

Our goal is to gather your insights and compile them into a submission that reflects the diverse voices and needs of Young Carers, which will be presented to DSS as part of the consultation process of the new National Carer Strategy. 

This is an opportunity for you to shape the policies and support systems that will directly impact your lives and the lives of those you care for. 

Questions for you to respond to:

• Do you use the term Young Carer? Is there other language that you prefer to use?
• What responsibilities do you take on as a Young Carer? Are you the main carer, or do you share responsibilities with others?
• What does the term Primary Carer mean to you? 
• What would make it easier for you to manage your caring responsibilities? Are there skills you want to learn to help you care better?
• Have you engaged with carer support services before? What was your experience, and how could these services be improved?
• Has anything ever made it difficult for you to take a break from your caring role? If so, what would help you feel more comfortable taking a break?
• How do you manage school or work alongside your caring role? What would help you better balance these responsibilities?
• What are the top three challenges you face as a carer? What do you think would make a big difference in your life and the life of the person you care for?
• Have you joined any support groups for carers? What was helpful, and what could be better?
• Do you belong to a diverse community (e.g., First Nations, CALD, LGBTQIA+)? How can the strategy better support you and others in your community?
• Have you applied for financial support as a carer? What challenges did you face, and how could the process be improved?
• Have you ever needed emergency help as a carer? What was your experience, and what could be done better?
• Is there anything else you want to share about your experience as a Young Carer?

Once you’ve put together your response, submit it via the link below and have your voice heard! If you want to learn more about the National Carer Strategy, check out the Discussion Paper here.

Submit Your Responses Here

Submissions to Little Dreamers close at midnight, Tuesday 3rd September.