Walking the Journey Retreat Brings Christmas Cheer in JulyCarers from Canberra and the Illawarra recently came together for another memorable Walking the Journey Together retreat, enjoying three days of connection, relaxation and festive fun in the heart of Bungendore.
The retreat began with a warm welcome as carers and the people they support settled in and enjoyed meeting miniature ponies, lambs and guinea pigs, along with outdoor games and a comforting hot chocolate station. It was the perfect way to unwind, meet new people and ease into the retreat.
The following day embraced the spirit of Christmas in July. Carers spent the morning creating festive baubles and decorations, while care recipients enjoyed games around the beautifully decorated Christmas tree and open fire. The afternoon offered something for everyone, with carers taking part in Christmas quizzes and charades before enjoying a private tour of the Bungendore Christmas Shop and a Secret Santa gift exchange. At the same time, care recipients enjoyed a lively Australian general knowledge quiz and team games.
That evening, everyone came together to share a traditional Christmas dinner, celebrate the day's activities with prizes and gifts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere created by Christmas carol singers performing beside the fire at Rose Cottage.
On the final day, carers had the opportunity to share their ideas and experiences with the Carers ACT team. Illawarra carers met with the Engagement Team to discuss ways to raise awareness of Walking the Journey retreats across the Illawarra region. In contrast, Canberra carers participated in a discussion about their experiences and ideas for future retreats. These conversations are an important part of ensuring our programs continue to reflect the needs and priorities of carers.
The retreat concluded with a guided walking tour through the historic township of Bungendore, where carers enjoyed learning about the town's rich history and exploring its unique local shops, before gathering one last time for dinner and games.
Walking the Journey retreats provide more than just a break from caring - they create opportunities to connect with others who understand, build lasting friendships, recharge, and make cherished memories together. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this retreat such a special experience. We look forward to welcoming more carers to future retreats.
For more information on our Walking the Journey Together Retreats, please reach out to: - Phone: (02) 62969982
- Email: group.programs@carersact.org.au
Floriade Community Garden Project
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Floriade Community Garden Project Planting Day and Lunch at the Day Respite Centre in Spence.
Carers came together to plant the first seedlings and enjoy a shared lunch, helping lay the foundations for a community garden that will continue to grow over the coming months. The project is a wonderful example of collaboration across Carers ACT, bringing carers, staff and participants together to create a welcoming outdoor space for everyone to enjoy.
Participants at the Day Respite Centre will now care for the garden by watering and tending to the plants, while participants from The Hub will add a creative touch by decorating garden gnomes to bring colour and personality to the space.
One carer shared, "I love watching my garden grow at home. It will be great to be able to watch the garden here grow as well."
As the garden flourishes in the lead-up to Floriade, it will stand as a lasting reminder of the connections, teamwork and shared experiences that make our community so special. We'll continue to share updates and photos as the garden comes to life.
To explore upcoming wellbeing activities and events, click on the button below. The Staying at Home Program’s Christmas in June Event
The Staying at Home Program recently brought carers and the people they support together for a festive Christmas in June celebration at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra.
Designed for carers supporting someone living with mild to moderate dementia, the evening provided a welcoming opportunity to relax, connect with others and celebrate the friendships built through the program. Guests enjoyed pre-dinner drinks, a shared meal, live music, dancing and a special visit from Santa.
Staying at Home Program Team Leader Sarah said, "The Christmas in June event was a celebration of the friendships, connections and memories created through the Staying at Home Program over the past year."
Team members reflected on the evening, reporting much laughter, dancing and festivity encouraged a positive spirit and new social connections.
One carer shared, "It was so nice to see carers from different cultures and backgrounds coming together to celebrate. Thanks for such a lovely night."
If you live in the ACT and care for someone with mild to moderate dementia who is living at home, the Staying at Home Program can provide education, support and opportunities to connect with others in similar caring roles.
To find out more: Phone: (02) 6296 9922 Email: stayingathome@carersact.org.au Website: carersact.org.au/dementia-support-programs Bowral Day TripCarers recently enjoyed a day trip to the Southern Highlands, visiting the Donald Bradman Museum and the Bowral Honey Farm.
The outing provided an opportunity for carers to take a break from their caring responsibilities, connect with other carers and enjoy a day filled with history, culture and hands-on experiences. At the museum, carers explored the legacy of cricket greats including Sir Donald Bradman, Shane Warne, Mark Waugh and Muthiah Muralitharan, and even had the chance to see Sir Donald Bradman's famous cricket bat. They also enjoyed tea, coffee and scones inspired by some of Bradman's favourite treats.
The group then visited the Bowral Honey Farm, where they learned about beekeeping and honey production, tried their hand at beekeeping and sampled locally produced honey.
One carer shared: "I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Mark and Talei from Carers ACT. The warmth, care and thoughtfulness they put into the day made it special. Thank you for organising such a lovely outing. It was beautiful, and I am deeply grateful. I learned a lot, had time to relax, and for a while I was able to put aside the worries and responsibilities of caring for my mum at home."
Activities like these provide carers with valuable opportunities to recharge, build social connections and enjoy time for themselves.
To explore upcoming wellbeing activities and events, click on the button below. CALD Group Visits ParliamentMembers of Carers ACT's Indian and Sri Lankan CALD Groups recently enjoyed their fortnightly social gathering with a visit to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.
Carers and the people they support explored Australia's political history through a guided tour of the former Parliament House, including the Senate and House of Representatives Chambers and the party rooms. The outing concluded with coffee and cake at the Courtyard Café, providing time to connect and enjoy each other's company.
One carer shared, "It was great to try something different and learn more about the history of Australia. I'm glad I came."
These regular social gatherings provide carers with an opportunity to connect with others, enjoy new experiences and take a break from the demands of their caring role.
To explore upcoming wellbeing activities and events, click on the button below.
The Policy and Advocacy team was invited by Women with Disabilities ACT (WWDACT) to contribute to its Disability and Sexual Health Scoping Project, ensuring carers' perspectives were included throughout the project. The project will help inform future improvements to sexual health information, education and services for people with disability across the ACT.
Carers who have supported a person with disability to access sexual health services, information or education in the ACT are invited to share their experiences by completing the Share Your Experience: Survey on Disability and Sexual Health Services in the ACT.
Mental Health Carers Voice (MHCV) and the Policy and Advocacy team contributed to the ACT Inquiry into Health System Data, Demand and Processes, advocating for improvements that would benefit both carers and the people they support. We were pleased to see the final report include several recommendations that aligned with our submission, including greater transparency around waiting lists, improvements to digital health records and stronger care planning. While these recommendations are not specific to carers, they have the potential to improve coordination of care and reduce pressure on carers over time.
We were pleased to see the Committee's final report reflect many of the issues we raised in the ACT Inquiry into Men's Suicide Rates. We called for practical action, including a review of the Mental Health Act 2015, more flexible support options and investment in a Carers Recognition Card. Our submission was referenced throughout the report including a recommendation that the proposed Carers Recognition Card include mental health carers, demonstrating the value of ensuring carers' voices are heard in shaping future policy.
The Policy and Advocacy team also made a submission to the ACT Government's inquiry into the Crimes (Coercive Control) Amendment Bill 2026. The Bill proposes to make coercive control a criminal offence in the ACT. We highlighted the importance of ensuring carers' experiences are recognised and considered as the legislation is developed and implemented.
We also continue to advocate for carers at a national level. This includes contributing to Carers Australia's submission to the Inquiry into the Support at Home Program, helping ensure the voices and lived experiences of ACT carers are reflected in discussions about the future of aged care.
While progress is being made, there is still more to do to ensure carers are fully recognised, valued and better supported. We remain committed to listening to carers and advocating for practical changes that make a meaningful difference. Thank you for continuing to share your experiences—they strengthen our advocacy and help shape a better future for carers across the ACT. Kinship and Foster Carer Meeting preparation document is now live Kinship and foster carers often work with many different agencies, service providers and specialists, which can sometimes feel like a revolving door of meetings. To help carers feel more prepared and confident, we have developed a simple Meeting Preparation Guide with practical tips for staying clear, focused and organised before and during meetings.
Click on the button below to access the download link for the meeting preparation document. Navigating Financial SupportOur Kinship and Foster Carer Advocate recently attended an information session on the Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers service offered by Services Australia. The advisers specialise in helping carers understand and access the payments and subsidies available to support their individual circumstances. If you are a grandparent, foster or kinship carer and would like assistance navigating the support available, you can find more information through Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers – Services Australia. Voices of Kinship and Foster CarersCarers ACT is developing a short, animated video for the Kinship and Foster Carer Resource Hub, featuring quotes from kinship and foster carers. The video will share carers' experiences, what supports them and what they want others to understand about their role, helping to raise awareness and understanding of kinship and foster care.
If you are a kinship or foster carer, we invite you to click on the button below to participate New Activity Grading System – Helping You Choose the Right Activity
At Carers ACT, we want every carer to feel confident and comfortable when participating in our events and activities.
To help you decide which activities are the best fit for you, we are introducing a new Activity Grading System. You'll start to see activities labelled as Low, Medium or High, based on the terrain, walking distance, pace and overall physical demands of the activity.
The grading is not about limiting participation—it is about providing you with clear information so you can choose activities that best suit your comfort level, mobility and wellbeing.
Each activity will include a simple guide outlining: - The expected terrain
- Walking distance and duration
- The pace of the activity
- Examples of the types of activities included within each level
If you are ever unsure whether an activity is right for you, we encourage you to get in touch. Our team is always happy to talk through the activity; answer your questions and help you find an option that suits your needs.
Our goal is simple - to make it easier for every carer to enjoy our activities safely, comfortably and with confidence. AFL: GWS Giants vs Gold Coast SunsJoin us for an exciting day out at Manuka Oval as the GWS Giants take on the Gold Coast Suns in a thrilling AFL clash. Whether you're a lifelong footy fan or experiencing your first live AFL match, this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the excitement of game day, connect with other carers and soak up the atmosphere.
Come along to cheer on your team, enjoy great company and experience one of Australia's favourite sporting events in a fun and welcoming environment.
Date: Sunday 9 August 2026 Time: 11:45am Location: Manuka Oval, Canberra ACT Cost: Free (registrations will close once the event reaches capacity)
Please note: This is a waitlisted event. Participants will receive further information closer to the day, including meeting details, parking options and public transport information. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
To register, click the button below.
If you have any questions about the event or need assistance registering through the Carers ACT Portal, please get in touch with our Groups Team. We're happy to help.
Phone: (02) 6296 9982 Email: groups.programs@carersact.org.au
5 Ways to Wellbeing: Connect, Be Active
Activity Guide: Low Art Friday with Silvia – DecoupageTake some time for yourself and discover the relaxing art of decoupage in this month's Art Friday session. Using decorative paper napkins and simple techniques, you'll transform everyday objects into beautiful, personalised keepsakes while exploring colour, pattern and creativity.
This welcoming, hands-on workshop is suitable for all skill levels and offers a wonderful opportunity to unwind, connect with other carers and enjoy the benefits of creative expression. You'll leave with a unique handmade piece and the confidence to continue creating at home.
Date: Friday 7 August 2026 Time: 10:30am Location: Carers ACT, 80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt Cost: Free
To register, click the button below.
If you have any questions about the event or need assistance registering through the Carers ACT Portal, please get in touch with our Groups Team. We're happy to help. - Phone: (02) 6296 9982
- Email: groups.programs@carersact.org.au
5 Ways to Wellbeing: Keep Learning, Connect
Activity Guide: Low CommBank: Master Your MoneyBuild your confidence with money and learn practical strategies to help you take control of your finances in this informative session presented by representatives from CommBank.
Whether you're looking to refresh your knowledge or develop new financial skills, this engaging workshop will explore ways to better manage everyday spending, bills and debt, build healthy savings habits, and work towards your financial goals. You'll also discover practical tips and tools to help you stay on track and make informed financial decisions with greater confidence.
Date: Monday 10 August 2026 Time: 10:30am Location: Carers ACT, 80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt Cost: Free
To register, click the button below.
If you have any questions about the event or need assistance registering through the Carers ACT Portal, please get in touch with our Groups Team. We're happy to help. - Phone: (02) 6296 9982
- Email: groups.programs@carersact.org.au
5 Ways to Wellbeing: Keep Learning, Be Aware
Activity Guide: Low Women's Group – Tuggeranong Bar and GrillJoin other women carers for a relaxed evening of conversation, connection and a shared meal at Tuggeranong Bar and Grill. This is a wonderful opportunity to take a break from your caring role, enjoy good food and build meaningful connections with other women who understand the caring experience.
Whether you're attending for the first time or reconnecting with familiar faces, you'll be welcomed into a friendly and supportive environment where you can unwind and enjoy the company of others.
Date: Wednesday 12 August 2026 Time: 6:00pm Location: Canberra Bar and Grill, Tuggeranong Cost: Free
Please note: This event is currently waitlisted.
To register, click the button below.
If you have any questions about the event or need assistance registering through the Carers ACT Portal, please get in touch with our Groups Team. We're happy to help.
Phone: (02) 6296 9982 Email: groups.programs@carersact.org.au
5 Ways to Wellbeing: Connect, Help Others
Activity Guide: Low Mental Health Carer Support GroupsAre you supporting a family member, partner, or friend with mental health challenges?
Carers ACT's Mental Health Carer Support Groups offer a safe and supportive space to connect with other carers who understand your experiences.
Mental health carers play an important role in providing emotional, practical, and ongoing support, often while balancing their own wellbeing, responsibilities, and daily life.
Facilitated by a counsellor, these groups provide opportunities for connection, shared understanding, and support.
Northside Mental Health Carers Support Group Date: Second Tuesday of every month Time: 5:00pm to 7:00pm Location: Carers ACT, 2/80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt ACT
Southside Mental Health Carers Support Group Date: Third Monday of every month Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm Location: Communities at Work, 245 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway ACT
To attend a group or learn more, please contact: carer.support@carersact.org.au
Activity Guide: Low ABC Highlights the Reality of Being a Young CarerCarers ACT would like to acknowledge the ABC for recently shining a spotlight on the experiences of young carers through its article, 'I Lost a Normal Childhood': What It's Like Being a Young Carer.'
The article shares the personal stories of two young carers, who both began caring for family members before the age of 10. Their experiences reflect the reality faced by an estimated 391,000 young carers under the age of 25 across Australia.
For many young carers, caring becomes part of everyday life. It can involve helping with personal care, household tasks, medication management, emotional support and advocating for family members, often while balancing school, friendships, work and their own wellbeing.
The article also highlights the challenges many young carers experience. They describe missing school, feeling isolated from their peers and taking on significant responsibilities at an age when most young people are focused on learning, building friendships and discovering who they are. Despite these challenges, they also speak about the resilience they have developed, the importance of sharing their stories and the value of connecting with organisations and other young carers who understand their experiences.
At Carers ACT, we know that many young carers do not recognise themselves as carers. They often see what they do as simply helping their family, without realising that support is available to help them balance their caring role with education, employment and their own wellbeing.
If you are under 25 and regularly provide care or support for a family member or friend who has a disability, lives with a chronic or terminal medical condition, experiences mental illness, or is aged and frail, you may be a young carer.
Carers ACT remains committed to ensuring young carers are recognised, supported and empowered to pursue their education, employment and personal goals while continuing in their caring role.
We encourage you to read the full ABC article and hear Kenny and Naomi's inspiring stories: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-14/what-its-like-as-a-young-carer/106891386 Young Carers Research StudyFederation University Australia is seeking participants aged 18–30 years who provided care for a parent or guardian for at least three years before the age of 18. The study aims to better understand how caring during childhood influences the transition into adulthood and will help inform future support for young carers.
Participation is voluntary and confidential. If you would like to learn more or express your interest, please contact rhart@students.federation.edu.au. Staying Healthy During Winter for CarersAs winter begins, the cold weather often brings an increase in respiratory illnesses, which can be particularly concerning for carers and the people they care for.
Carers play a vital role in the health of the people they care for. Here are some health tips during winter for carers.
Stay Up to Date on the Flu Vaccination Making sure both yourself and the person you care for are up to date with vaccinations like the flu vaccination can prevent illness. Influenza is the most common vaccine-preventable disease in Australia. Although it can be mild, it can cause very serious illness in otherwise healthy people.
Practice Good Hygiene like Hand Washing Hand washing and sanitising your hands regularly can help minimise the spread of infections like colds, the flu, and gastroenteritis.
Create a Warm Home Environment Keeping your living space warm and cozy can help yourself and the person you care for feel more comfortable during the colder months. Turning on the heater or using blankets while sitting in the lounge room can help keep you warm while relaxing.
Wearing woollen clothing, beanies, gloves, and socks at home can also be beneficial. Wearing a few layers of clothing also helps keep your body warm. Using a heated blanket, woollen or down quilts, and cotton sheets can help to keep your bed warm, while you sleep.
Maintain Social Connections Staying connected with friends and family, even if it's through phone calls or video chats, is important, even while it’s cold. Maintaining social connections can significantly boost mood and mental health.
Engage in Healthy Activities Staying as active as possible, even while it’s cold, can improve your physical and mental health during winter. A run, a walk, or a bicycle ride is a great way to get moving. Or, if it’s too cold, you could try an indoor activity like a visit to the gym, a swim at an indoor pool, or a Yoga or Tai Chi class.
Carers ACT have many health and wellbeing activities that you could try during winter to keep you healthy and warm. These include Dru Yoga, Tai Chi, art classes, and social dinners.
To explore upcoming wellbeing activities and events, click on the button below.
Libraries ACT Celebrates Disability Pride MonthThroughout July, Libraries ACT is celebrating Disability Pride Month with a range of free activities that recognise disability as an important and valued part of our community. The program promotes inclusion, accessibility and community connection through events designed for people of all ages and abilities.
For carers, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy inclusive activities alongside the person you care for or simply explore welcoming community spaces together. Highlights include low sensory library sessions, interactive community art and reflection activities, accessible dance classes, and inclusive Story Time sessions featuring Key Word Sign for children and families.
Whether you are looking for a quieter library experience, an opportunity to connect with others, or activities that celebrate diversity and inclusion, there is something for everyone.
To explore the full Disability Pride Month program and book events, visit the Libraries ACT website: https://www.library.act.gov.au/
Hoyts Discounted Cinema Tickets for CarersAre you registered with Carers ACT? Registered carers can access discounted movie tickets at Hoyts Cinemas when attending a session with the person they care for.
This initiative provides carers and the person they care for with an opportunity to enjoy time together, relax and connect through a shared experience in the community.
Eligible carers can purchase an adult movie ticket for $1.10 when attending a session with the person they care for.
Eligibility - A Carers ACT Registered Carer Card
- Photo identification
- Carers must attend the session with the person they care for to access the discount
Where and when is the discount available? - HOYTS Cinemas across Australia
- Available for 2D, 3D, HOYTS Lux, Xtremescreen and IMAX sessions
- Valid every day, including weekends, school holidays and public holidays
Carers ACT Registered Carer Cards are available from the Carers ACT office reception at: 2/80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt ACT.
To learn more or access a Registered Carer Card: Phone: (02) 6296 9900 Email: carers@carersact.org.au Free Community Connection Activities Across CanberraLooking for a gentle way to connect with others? Roses in the Ocean is offering free Community Connection activities across Canberra through its Peer CARE Companion in Community ACT program.
These relaxed walks and catch-ups provide a welcoming, low-pressure space for adults aged 18 years and over to connect with others. Whether you're feeling isolated, supporting someone else or simply looking to build new connections, you're welcome to attend. Many people come along on their own, and there is no expectation to share your story.
Community Connection Walk Date: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month Time: 9:30am Location: International Flags, Parkes Place West, Lake Burley Griffin A gentle walk with optional coffee afterwards.
Belconnen Community Connection Catch-up Date: 2nd Wednesday of each month Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm Location: Kiln at Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen Enjoy cards, board games, simple creative activities or relaxed conversation.
Dickson Coffee Catch-up Date: 4th Saturday of each month Time: 10:30am – 11:45am Location: Café Stepping Stone, 8 Hawdon Place, Dickson
A relaxed coffee catch-up where many people attend on their own. Cost: Free
Please note: No referral or registration is required, and a friend, family member or support person is welcome to attend with you the first time.
To learn more, visit https://www.facebook.com/rosesintheocean/
Open Opportunities
We are always looking for ways that carers can participate
in the issues that impact them. If you’re looking for a way to comment on a new
program or process, or see what opportunities are available in the advocacy,
survey and lived experience space, visit our open opportunities webpage. About the Carer GatewayThe Carer Gateway (delivered by Carers ACT) provides a range of tailored supports and services for carers that are personalised to your unique situation and outcome. Services include counselling and peer support groups, respite care, equipment, home help and even support in home emergency respite. You can get the support you need to manage your daily challenges, reduce stress, plan for the future, and improve your wellbeing.
Call the Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 between 9am and 5pm and speak to one of our local care planners who will talk through what you need and help organise the right services and support to help you. Your Impact - Share Your Story and Create Change
Carers ACT works hard to respond to the needs of carers as we are told about them. Your carer stories inform our policy, services and how we influence the community. We're always looking for cares stories to guide us, inform us and help the community understand just how valuable carers are to our community. By sharing your story, other carers will know they are not alone, and the community will better understand your role and challenges. Share you story here.
Our Canberra is the printed newsletter Canberrans receive in their mailboxes monthly, informing of local news, events and government initiatives.
This year, they have begun producing an Easy English edition of Our Canberra. You can see these editions on the Our Canberra website here.
It is currently only available in digital form.
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