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Caring Matters E-News | October 2026 |
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This October, we celebrate National Carers Week and recognise the invaluable contribution carers make to families and communities across Western Australia. National Carers Week will take place from Sunday, 11th October to Saturday, 17th October 2026.
In this special edition, discover National Carers Week events and our 30th Anniversary giveaway, taking place throughout October as we celebrate carers and the difference they make every day.
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To celebrate National Carers Week, we are hosting Cuppa in the Park events at four locations.
Drop in for a free coffee, spin the prize wheel, take a well-earned pause, and enjoy a cuppa on us!
Kings Park, Kulbardi Pavilion (and bubble tea)
Sunday, 11th October | 9.30am to 12.30pm
Neil Hawkins Park, Joondalup
Tuesday, 13th October | 9.00am to 11.00am
Woodbridge Riverside Park, Midland
Wednesday, 14th October | 9.00am to 11.00am
Governor Reserve, Rockingham
Thursday, 15th October | 9.00am to 11.00am
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Carers WA Conference 2026, leading into National Carers Week, will inspire, inform and celebrate carers across Western Australia. As Carers WA proudly marks 30 years of supporting carers, the conference will highlight the importance of working together to address the current and emerging issues facing carers.
Registrations are now closed for both online and in-person attendance. If you are unable to attend, stay tuned. Session recordings will be made available after the event.
Thank you to our supporters who have made this event possible.
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Being a young carer aged 16-25 years old can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging to find time to focus on your own wellbeing. This session is designed to help you explore self-care in a way that feels realistic, meaningful, and specific to you.
When: Monday, 5th October | 2.00pm – 4.00pm
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Take a break, have some fun, and join us for an exciting day out at Latitude! This special respite event is designed for young carers aged 13-17 to relax, connect with others, and enjoy a day of recreation and adventure.
Challenge yourself on the climbing walls, trampolines or high walks and then relax with delicious pizza and some low-key games afterwards.
When: Tuesday, 6th October | All day
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Join us for a special day just for young carers and their families. This relaxed foreshore picnic is an opportunity to connect with others, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and spend time together in a supportive and welcoming environment.
When: Friday, 9th October | All day
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Join us for an informative session with Advocare representatives Christine and Dee, who will guide carers through the aged care system and recent changes to Aged Care Plans.
This is your opportunity to ask questions, learn about available supports, and gain practical information to help you navigate aged care with confidence.
When: Wednesday, 14th October | 12.30pm – 3.00pm
Where: Albany Public Library | 221 York St, Albany
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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Celebrate Carers Week with a special DIY Pamper Workshop in Broome. Create your own pamper products to take home while enjoying a fun and relaxing morning in a supportive environment.
There will also be an opportunity to connect with other carers, make new connections, share experiences, and participate in peer support.
When: Tuesday, 13th October | 10.00am –12.00pm
Where: Broome Circle House | 27 Frederick Street, Broome
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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Enjoy a relaxed morning tea with representatives from Kimberley Aged Care and Community Services, who will provide information about My Aged Care and support carers to better understand and navigate the aged care system. This is an opportunity to ask questions, learn about available supports, and gain practical guidance to help you access the services you need with confidence.
When: Thursday, 15th October | 10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: Broome Circle House | 27 Frederick Street, Broome
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
For more information about this event, please contact jill.cottle@carerswa.asn.au
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Carers Week Activity Grant Events |
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Thanks to Lotterywest we were able to provide grants to organisations to celebrate their own Carers Week activity.
Enjoy a range of wonderful events including:
- Taming the Mind How to Deal with Scary Thoughts hosted by Bridgetown Hub
- Paint, Connect & Recharge hosted by Wagin Community Resource Centre Inc
- Carers Self-Care Expo hosted by Goldfields Women's Health Care Centre
- Chat, Sip ‘n’ Chill Carer’s Wellness Evening hosted by City of Vincent
- Carers of People Experiencing an Eating Disorder Dr Walter Kaye hosted by Richmind
- Heritage Tram City Tour hosted by Centrecare Inc
- Morning Tea hosted by Neurological Council
- Garden Lunch hosted by Make It Special
- Carers Play Day hosted by All Stars for Autism
- Caring for our Carers hosted by Solaris Cancer Care
- Quiz & Sizzle Hopetoun hosted by Hopetoun Community Resource Centre
- Solaris Qi Gong & Sound Healing hosted by Town of Cottesloe
- Lunch at Kalgoorlie Golf Course hosted by Centrecare Inc
- Pamper & Play Session hosted by Hannah's House Perth
- Community BBQ Event hosted by Centrecare Inc |
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30th Anniversary Giveaway |
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As part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations, Carers WA is excited to launch a special giveaway during Carers Week, celebrating the stories, moments and experiences of carers in our community.
We are inviting carers to share a personal story with a photo that reflects their caring journey. Every story matters, and by sharing yours, you will go into the draw to win one of our fantastic prizes, generously donated by our campaign sponsors.
Prizes include:
- Neoprene Pearl Bracelet from Pearl of Australia (valued at $460)
- Luxury Escape for Two at Hilton Garden Inn Busselton
- Luxury Escape for Two at The Vines Resort Swan Valley
- Pamper Hamper from COMO Shambhala
- AFL Passes for Two courtesy of Optus Stadium
- One Night's Accommodation at Pinctada McAlpine House, Broome
Before entering the giveaway, please take a moment to read the Terms and Conditions on our website.
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Thank You to Our Campaign Sponsors |
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Rest might feel like a foreign concept in today’s times but it is a truly vital piece of the puzzle.
Come along for a relaxing morning where we will share some simple practices that restore and replenish.
When: Monday, 19th October |
10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: North Beach Community Centre
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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| This gentle and informative workshop explores the many forms grief can take, strategies to help manage our own grief, and ways we can support others on their grieving journey.
This session will be facilitated by Erin Griffin, an End of Life Guide committed to bridging the gap between clinical and community care around death and dying.
When: Monday, 26th October |
10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: North Beach Community Centre
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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| Take some time to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself at this relaxing Yin Yoga and Sound Healing session with Jo from Flow Yoga Studio.
Set in a beautiful boutique studio overlooking the ocean, this session offers the perfect space to relax.
When: Wednesday, 4th November |
10.30am – 11.30am
Where: Flow Yoga Studio | 158B Chapman Road, Beresford
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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| Join us for the Little Print Workshop, a
hands-on introduction to lino printing. Spend two relaxing hours carving your printing plate, rolling ink, and creating beautiful prints to take home.
When: Thursday 5th November |
10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: Sunflower Studio | 237 Marine Terrace, Geraldton
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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| This gentle yoga class will be guided by Erin Griffin who loves nothing more than inviting people to slow down, be kind and listen to their bodies.
When: Tuesday, 17th November |
10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: Henderson Environmental Centre | End of Groat St, North Beach
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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| In this relaxed, hands-on workshop, participants will create their own colourful mosaic mirror.
No previous art or craft experience is required.
When: Thursday, 26th November |
10.00am – 12.30pm
Where: Good Little Things | 5/88 Dempster Street, Esperance
Cost: Free for carers registered with Carers WA
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To recognise the invaluable contribution of carers, 38 landmarks across Western Australia will light up in blue during National Carers Week (11th -17th October 2026).
This year's theme, "Care for a Carer: Making Carers Visible," highlights the important role carers play in our communities and encourages greater recognition and support. From iconic Perth locations such as Optus Stadium and Elizabeth Quay to landmarks across regional WA, the illuminations will help shine a light on carers and celebrate their dedication.
Thank you to the WA Department of Communities, along with participating organisations for bringing this initiative to life.
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Are you a carer facing challenges navigating services, reviews or complex situations?
Our Advocacy Service is here to assist. Carers WA Individual Carer Advocacy works alongside carers to provide information, guidance, education, assistance and support, in understanding options and potential outcomes so informed decisions can be made with increased confidence.
Our Services:
- Support carers facing complex or challenging situations
- Provide information about carers’ rights and entitlements
- Help carers have their needs recognised
- Advocate on issues affecting carers and their caring role
- Support and represent carers in formal processes
- Provide personalised support for individual circumstances
Flexible Delivery:
- Email
- Face-to-Face Appointments
- Phone |
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2027-28 WA State Budget Submission seeks investment in carer hardship and respite grants, WA young carers, and meaningful carer inclusion in disability, aged care and early intervention reforms.
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We are proud to support the Canning Show as a Community Partner this year.
Thanks to the generosity of the Canning Agricultural, Horticultural and Recreational Society, carers and their families can enter the draw for up to four tickets to the Canning Show.
When: Friday, 6th & Saturday, 7th November
Opening Hours: Friday, 5.00pm–10.00pm | Saturday 10.00am–10.00pm
Where: Cannington Exhibition Centre & Showgrounds Cannington, WA
Terms and conditions apply.
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We are incredibly proud to celebrate Elissa Oakey, recipient of the Carers WA Milestone Award at the Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia Youth Awards.
Elissa’s lived experience as a young carer has inspired her dedication to advocacy, inclusion, and supporting others across Western Australia. While caring for her mum and managing her own chronic illnesses, Elissa travelled long distances to complete her Occupational Therapy Honours degree. Along the way, she self-published a children’s book promoting early scoliosis detection and owner-trained her assistance dog, Evie, who became WA’s first scent-trained POTS alert dog.
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Carers WA is proudly sponsoring the Sensory Space at this year's Perth Royal Show .
This dedicated area will provide a calming environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the fun and excitement of the show.
We recognise the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, and we're proud to be part of an initiative that contributes positively to our community.
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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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Help Shape a More Accessible and Inclusive Joondalup |
Have your say on the City’s new Disability Access & Inclusion Plan. Share your ideas to help improve access & inclusion in Joondalup. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $100 Coles Myer Voucher.
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Help Shape WA’s Eating Disorders Residential Service |
Are you a carer or family member of someone affected by an eating disorder? Share your experiences and help inform the planning of WA’s future residential service.
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Help Validate a New Social Frailty Questionnaire for Informal Carers |
Older adults (55+) who provide unpaid care are invited to join an anonymous UNSW survey. Help test a new questionnaire exploring carers’ social wellbeing, support networks and lived experiences.
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Carer Perspectives on the Draft NSQHS Standards (Third Edition) |
Have your say on the draft NSQHS Standards (3rd Edition). Carers WA is seeking feedback from unpaid carers on key issues and improvements. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $50 Prezee voucher.
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Access to and Affordability of Medical Specialists Survey |
Share your experiences accessing specialist healthcare and help shape Carers WA’s submission to government. Enter for a chance to win 1 of 2 $50 Prezzee gift cards.
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SMHS MySay Carers Experience Survey |
Have you supported someone accessing care through SMHS? Share your experience in a survey to help improve how carers are recognised, involved and supported across hospitals and community health.
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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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