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Caring Matters E-News | June 2026 |
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While the budget included general cost-of-living measures, it delivered no direct recognition of carers and no specified carer-specific supports. WA’s unpaid workforce was overlooked. Again.
For years, unpaid carers have been described as the backbone of the system. But backbones break when they are ignored.
How much longer can Western Australia afford to keep overlooking those people providing unpaid
care, who hold everything together?
To read the full media release click here
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The New Prepare to Care (PTC) Book Is Now Available |
We are excited to introduce the revised edition of the PTC Book, now featuring expanded Paediatric and Mental Health content to better support carers and families.
This book is designed to be used during a hospital admission and the period after discharge, helping you navigate the hospital system, keep track of important information, and access helpful contacts and supports along the way.
To download a digital version of the book click here. |
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| Youth Advisory Group Applications |
Are you passionate about driving change and amplifying the voices of young carers in Western Australia? (Paid opportunity).
Carers WA is looking for three young carers aged 16 to 25 to join our Youth Advisory Group (YAG) for a 12-month term, with the option to extend for another 12 months. This is your chance to make a real impact and help shape the future of youth engagement at Carers WA.
To find out more click here. |
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Linking Together: Volunteer Opportunity |
Carers, would you like to make a difference by supporting fellow carers for just a few hours each month?
We are looking for Group Coordinators and Assistant Group Coordinators for social support groups in your area.
Training is provided, and out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.
To find out more, please contact 1300 227 377 or email socialsupport@carerswa.asn.au. |
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Save the Date: Carers WA Conference 2026 |
Join us for the premier event in honour of National Carers Week 2026.
With the theme “Navigating Care Together: Connection, Collaboration and Growth”, reflects the importance of working collectively to address both current and emerging issues faced by carers.
Official registrations will begin in early July.
When: Thursday, 8th October
Where: Optus Stadium | River View Room
Parking: Free
Stay tuned for more information! |
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Carer Representation Orientation |
Use your lived experience as a carer to stand up for, and represent the voice of carers in your community.
The Carer Representation Program supports carers to share their experiences and influence positive change across health and mental health systems. As a Carer Representative, you can help ensure carers’ perspectives are heard where decisions are made.
Find out more about becoming a Carer Representative in this half-day, no obligation, information session.
When: Friday, 5th June | 9.30am – 2.00pm
Where: Carers WA | 182 Lord St, Perth Western Australia
Morning tea and light lunch provided.
To register click here.
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End of Life Matters Workshop |
Join Erin for an informative, supportive and engaging conversation about Advanced Health Directives (AHDs). Before completing an AHD, it is essential to understand what advance healthcare planning really involves and how to make choices that truly reflect you.
This session will guide you through the purpose and process of advance care planning, helping you understand how an AHD allows you to clearly document your wishes if you are ever unable to communicate or make decisions for yourself.
When: Wednesday, 1st July | 10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: Thornlie Park Meeting Room
To register click here.
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Carer Conversations June and July |
These sessions will provide a safe forum for carers, and the agencies that support them, to discuss challenges and identify local solutions. Led by the Honourable Dr Katrina Stratton MLC, you are invited to attend a Carers Conversation session in person and online.
Feedback and data obtained in this session will contribute to the development of a new whole-of-government WA Carers Strategy and first Action Plan, as well as to develop a further understanding of challenges faced by carers in WA.
In Person: Kalgoorlie
When: Friday, 19th June | 9.30am – 12.30pm (Doors open 9.00am)
Where: Quality Inn Railway Motel | 33/51 Forrest Street, Kalgoorlie | John Forrest Room
In Person: Albany
When: Thursday, 30th July | 9.30am – 12.30am (Doors open 9.00am)
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Albany
Online June Session
When: Tuesday, 30th June | 5.30pm – 7.00pm
Where: Online
Online July Session
When: Thursday, 2nd July | 5.30pm – 7.00pm
Where: Online
If you have any queries, please reach out to the Department of Communities Carers Policy Team at carers@communities.wa.gov.au.
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Paint and Brunch: Karratha |
Join us for a beautiful Paint and Brunch, a studio experience where art and conversation come together over delicious food and intentional creativity.
When
Workshop 1: Tuesday, 9th June |
10.00am – 1.00pm
Workshop 2: Thursday, 11th June |
10.00am – 1.00pm
Where: Paintbox Art & Music Studios Karratha
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
To register click here.
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| Stress and the Body Workshop |
Carers WA presents an interactive workshop for carers exploring how trauma, stress and tension impact the body.
By educating the mind and working with the body, you can re-engineer your responses to stress and release tension.
When: Friday, 19th June |
10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: Djilba Meeting Room | 182 Lord St, Perth
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
To register click here. |
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Sound Healing & Breathwork Session: Karratha |
Carers in Karratha, this is your moment to pause, breathe, and be held.
Join Harlee for a deeply restorative experience designed just for you. She is a breathwork facilitator who creates calm and supportive spaces where carers can gently return to themselves.
When: Wednesday, 10th June |
10.30am – 11.30am
Where: 6/20 Headland Place, Karratha 6714
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
To register click here.
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| Capel: Carers WA Information Session |
Join us for a Carers WA information session in Capel. Meet your local regional coordinator and learn more about how we can assist you in your caring role.
When: Friday, 26th June |
10.00am – 11.30am
Where: Capel Library | Forrest Street
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
For more information click here.
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Carers Cooking Class: Albany |
Looking to try something new and enjoy a creative break from your caring role? Join us for a hands‑on cooking class with Executive Chef Frederick Kirby in Albany.
This three hour class is a relaxed and supportive space where you will learn to prepare a delicious selection of dishes, cook alongside other carers and enjoy a shared meal afterwards.
When: Wednesday, 17th June |
11.00am–3.00pm
Where: Kirby’s Atelier de Cuisine
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
To register click here.
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| Turkish Lamp Workshop: Denmark |
Carers are invited to take part in a relaxed and creative Turkish Lamp Workshop in Denmark.
This hands‑on workshop offers carers the opportunity to take some time out, learn a new craft, and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment. Guided step by step, participants will create their own decorative Turkish glass lamp using traditional techniques and colourful glass pieces.
When: Tuesday, 9th June | 9.45am–12.15pm
Where: Denmark Art Club
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
To register click here.
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Join in for the ConnectUp Launch Party.
This free, welcoming try-sports event is perfect for carers and people with disability to connect, get active together, and meet new people in a supportive community. Enjoy great food, music, and good vibes, and have a go at a range of inclusive sports, no prior experience needed.
Wear comfy clothes and shoes so you can try different activities.
When: Sunday, 7th June | 2.00pm – 4.00pm
Where: Bendat Basketball Centre
To register click here.
Everyone welcome! See you there!
ConnectUp is an online platform connecting people with disability and carers to participate in local physical activities. |
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Aged Care Reform Explained: June Webinar |
The Aged Care reforms introduced on 1st November 2025 are significant and complex.
As the reforms head toward the 6 month mark since introduction, COTA Australia and the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) are hosting a webinar session to provide another opportunity to have your questions answered.
When: Tuesday, 30th June |
12.00pm - 2.00pm
Where: Online
To register click here.
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| Bringing your Child's Team Together |
Kiind's upcoming Virtual MyTime session is designed for parents and carers of children with disability aged 0-18 years who may be autistic, have ADHD, or have developmental differences impacting daily life.
Topics discussed in this session include:
- Understanding the “Team Around the Child” approach
- How therapists, educators and medical professionals can collaborate effectively
When: Friday, 12th June | 10.00am - 11.30am
Where: Online
Cost: Free
To register click here.
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Carer Representation Updates |
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Did you know that there is a survey page on the Carers WA website available for your use. By participating in these surveys, you're contributing to vital research and assisting systemic advocacy which shapes policies that directly affect carers. |
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CARE Study: Carers Supporting Someone with Psychosis or Bipolar Disorder |
Monash University is conducting a study for carers supporting individuals with psychosis or bipolar disorder.
The study aims to better understand carers’ experiences and needs.
Participants will have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win a $100 voucher.
To participate in the survey click here.
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| EOI: Anxiety Supporter Study
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Curtin University is conducting a research study exploring carers’ experiences supporting adults with anxiety, OCD and PTSD, using focus groups with carers, people with lived experience and clinicians.
The information from this screener will remain confidential,
To participate in the survey click here.
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Thank you Carers in Broome |
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Last month, we had the pleasure of connecting with carers in Broome at our special High Tea at The Pinctada, as well as at the Aged Care and Disability Expos in Beagle Bay and One Arm Point.
It was a wonderful opportunity to come together, build connections, and share information about Carers WA’s regional supports and events across the Kimberley.
For more information about Carers WA regional supports click here. |
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If you are feeling overwhelmed or are seeking help with mental or emotional stress, we encourage you to contact Australia's helpline specialists that operate 24/7, built to support everyone, all year round. |
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| Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 Lifeline: 13 11 14 Suicide Call Back Service:
1300 659 467 Immediate Risk of Harm:
Triple Zero (000) |
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Carer Gateway: 1800 422 737 (8.00am - 5.00pm)
Carers WA: 1300 227 377 (8.30am - 4.30pm)
Carers Association of Western Australian Incorporated.
182 Lord Street, Perth WA 6000 |
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