April 2026 Newsletter providing an update on Carers ACT programs, activities and our advocacy work.
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April 2026

 

 


Welcome to the April update from Carers ACT.

This month, I want to begin by recognising the incredible generosity of SHAW Building Group and their partners, who recently held their annual Charity Bowls Day in support of carers across the ACT. For more than 21 years, this event has helped raise vital funds for carers who may otherwise fall through the gaps.

It was a fantastic day to be part of, marked by a strong sense of community and shared purpose. I would like to sincerely thank SHAW and all of the organisations and partners who contribute to making this event such a success each year. A special thank you also to young carer Ankith Aswath, who spoke on the day and shared his caring journey. Ankith reflected on how support made possible through this partnership has helped him continue his education alongside his caring responsibilities. It was a powerful reminder of the very real difference this support makes in carers’ lives.

This month we also celebrated International Women’s Day with carers from across the Canberra community. It was a deeply meaningful event that highlighted the strength, resilience and generosity of women carers, and reinforced the importance of connection and recognising carers’ experiences.

We are continuing our advocacy ahead of the ACT Budget. Our focus remains clear: ensuring carers are recognised, supported and able to access the services they need to sustain their caring role. This includes ongoing advocacy around respite, support for young carers, and the development of a Carers Recognition Card in the ACT. These priorities from the ACT Carers Strategy are reflected in our budget submission, and we will continue to work closely with government to ensure carers’ voices are heard.

Across all of our services, we remain focused on making sure what we offer delivers real and practical benefit to carers, while also supporting wellbeing, social connection and resilience. From strengthening our programs to expanding access to respite, including our new Day Respite Centre in Spence, we are committed to ensuring our services are responsive, effective and centred around carers’ needs.

I recently attended our Walking the Journey Together retreat in Bungendore. It was a valuable opportunity to spend time with carers and the people they care for, hear directly about their experiences and see the benefit of these programs in action. The new venue provided a calm and welcoming setting, and it was clear how important these retreats are in giving carers time to rest, connect and reset.

We are also conscious that rising costs, including fuel and everyday expenses, can make it more difficult for carers to attend these types of activities. We know these pressures are real, and we are considering what adjustments we can make to better support carers to participate and access our services.

Hearing directly from carers continues to be one of the most important parts of my role. I am always keen to connect, listen and understand what is working well and where we can improve. If you would like to share your experience or have a conversation, I would welcome the opportunity to meet for a coffee. Please feel free to contact our reception team to arrange a time.

Together, we will continue working to ensure carers are recognised, supported and connected across our community.



Warm wishes,




Cain Beckett 

CEO

In this Newsletter

  • Message from Cain- A personal update on what's happening what's ahead at Carers ACT from Cain Beckett. 
  • Carers ACT at a glance - A quick look at what's happening across Carers ACT. 
  • Policy and Advocacy Update - How we're championing carers in policy and system reform.
  • Kinship and Foster Care - Resources and updates for kinship and foster carers.
  • What's On for Carers - Carers ACT services and supports for you in your caring role.
  • Young Carers - Updates, opportunities and upcoming events to support and connect young carers. 
  • Meet the Team - Meet the people behind the work at Carers ACT.
  • Local and National News - Updates on news and issues affecting carers locally and nationally.
  • Wellbeing - Tips to help you look after your own health and wellbeing.
  • Community Connections - Community programs, events, and resources for you and the person you care for.

     

    Have Your Say: Carer Wellbeing 2026 Survey 

    Carers ACT encourages carers across the ACT to take part in the 2026 Carer Wellbeing Survey and share their experiences of caring.

    Caring can shape many parts of your life - your health, work, relationships and overall wellbeing. This survey is an opportunity to pause, reflect on your caring role and have your voice contribute to a broader understanding of what carers are experiencing across our community.

    Your insights are important. They help build a clearer picture of what is working well, where challenges exist and what changes are needed to better support carers. This information directly informs advocacy, service design and policy development, helping ensure that carers are recognised and supported in meaningful and practical ways.

    For carers who are balancing work and caring responsibilities, your perspective is particularly valuable. Understanding how caring impacts employment, flexibility and workplace support helps strengthen the case for more inclusive and responsive workplaces.

    Every response contributes to a stronger evidence base that supports improved services, better access to support and more informed decision-making across government and the sector. By sharing your experience, you are helping shape the future of support for carers in the ACT and beyond.

    If you have the capacity, we encourage you to take part and have your voice included.

    Complete the Carer Wellbeing 2026 Survey here: https://bit.ly/Carer2026

     

     

    International Women's Day Breakfast 

    Carers ACT marked International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026 by bringing together women carers, community members and leaders for a meaningful breakfast focused on the lived experiences of women who care.

    Through a powerful and honest conversation, carers shared their stories and reflections, highlighting key themes of connection, visibility, storytelling, identity and self-care.

    Connection was a strong theme throughout the morning. Many carers spoke about the sense of belonging that comes from being with others who understand the caring role. As one carer shared, “The moments I felt most seen were when I was among other carers. You just know the other person understands the experience.” Another reflected, “When carers meet, there is an instant connection. You don’t even need to explain why you’re there.”

    Carers also spoke about visibility and recognition. Many shared that caring can often go unseen or misunderstood in everyday life, particularly in workplaces and broader systems. “The only time I truly feel seen as a carer is when I am among other carers,” one carer said. Others reflected on the importance of recognising caring as something to be proud of: “We shouldn’t feel ashamed of our caring role. It should be the first thing we are proud to say.”

    The importance of storytelling and communication was also highlighted. Sharing lived experiences was seen as a powerful way to build understanding and create change. As one carer noted, “People want to help carers. Often, they just don’t know where to start until we open the conversation,” while another shared, “Telling our stories helps us heal and gives us strength to keep going.”

    Carers also reflected on strength, identity and self-care. While caring is a significant part of their lives, it does not define who they are. “My caring role is not 100 percent of me. There are many other parts of who I am,” one carer shared. Others spoke about the importance of taking time to rest and reconnect, with one noting, “Carers are human. We are allowed to have bad days and to feel things behind the smile.”

    Together, these reflections highlight the strength, resilience and generosity of women carers, and reinforce the importance of creating spaces where carers feel seen, heard and supported.

    Thank you to all the carers who shared their stories and supported one another throughout the morning.

     

    Walking the Journey Together - Bungendore Retreat 

    In late February, carers and the people they care for came together in Bungendore for the Walking the Journey Together retreat, a chance to step away from daily routines, connect with others and share time in a supportive and welcoming environment.

    Across the retreat, carers had the opportunity to meet others who understand the caring role, share experiences and build confidence through both social and practical activities. A reminiscence VR session supported carers and participants to reflect on past experiences and connect through shared memories, while an information session on the My Aged Care system provided practical guidance and space to ask questions.

    There were also plenty of moments to relax and enjoy time together. A BBQ and vintage car show created a warm, social atmosphere, giving carers the chance to connect with others while enjoying something different. The retreat concluded with a guided walk through Bungendore, offering time for gentle movement, reflection and conversation.

    These retreats are both a gentle introduction to respite and an opportunity to step away from daily routines in a supportive, shared environment. They allow carers and the people they care for to experience support together, helping to build confidence in accessing respite services while maintaining connection and familiarity. At the same time, they create space to rest, feel supported and connect with others who share similar experiences, supporting the wellbeing of both carers and care recipients.

     

    Celebrating 21 Years of Support from SHAW Building Group

    Carers ACT would like to extend our sincere thanks to SHAW Building Group for their continued support of carers across the ACT through their annual Charity Bowls Day.

    For more than 21 years, SHAW and its partners have generously supported carers who may otherwise fall through the gaps, with funds directly contributing to practical support, connection and opportunities for carers in our community.

    It was also a fantastic day for the Carers ACT team to come together with partners and take part in the lawn bowls. While we didn't keep score (which was probably for the best), the day was filled with great energy, connection and community spirit, making it a truly special occasion for everyone involved.

    A highlight of the day was hearing from young carer Ankith Aswath, who shared his personal journey and spoke about the impact the SHAW partnership has had on his life. As a beneficiary of this support, Ankith reflected on how this funding has supported his education and caring role, offering a powerful reminder of the real and lasting difference this partnership makes.

    We are incredibly grateful to SHAW Building Group and their partners for their ongoing commitment to carers. Your generosity continues to uplift the carer community and ensure that support is available where it is needed most.

     

    Staying At Home Program Retreat - A time for Connection and Support

    Carers ACT recently hosted a Staying at Home Program retreat at the Rex Hotel, bringing together carers and the people they care for who are living with mild to moderate dementia. The retreat provided a valuable opportunity to step away from daily routines, connect with others and take part in a range of supportive and enjoyable activities.

    Across the retreat, carers and participants engaged in a mix of social, creative and wellbeing activities including canvas painting, terrarium building, games and group sessions designed to encourage connection and relaxation. These shared experiences created space for both carers and participants to enjoy time together while also building confidence and connection with others in similar situations.

    The program also included an informative session delivered by Phillips Wealth Partners (Aged Care Advisors), providing carers with practical information and guidance on navigating current systems.

    A highlight for many was simply having time to pause, rest and be supported.

    Carers shared how impactful the experience was:

    “It’s so relaxing having some time to ourselves… it gives us confidence and helps us understand how to support someone living with dementia.”

    “I would highly recommend this program… it was full of fun, engaging activities and very well organised.”

    The retreat reflects the importance of creating opportunities where carers feel supported, connected and equipped to continue in their caring role.

    If you are caring for someone living with dementia and would like to learn more about the Staying at Home Program or upcoming retreats, we encourage you to get in touch.

    Email: stayingathome@carersact.org.au
    Phone: (02) 6296 9922

     

     

    The Policy and Advocacy team continues to work towards improved carer outcomes for carers, ensuring that they are recognised, valued, and included.

    Following the positive reception of our ACT Budget submissions earlier this year, we have been meeting with key decision-makers to progress our recommendations, including improving respite capacity in the ACT, introducing a Carers Recognition Card, and establishing a young carers mentoring program. Both the carers recognition card and the young carers mentoring program were part of our 2024 ACT election campaign, and we have been working hard behind the scenes to keep these initiatives moving forward.

    In February, our Systemic Advocacy and Mental Health Carers Voice (MHCV) teams lodged submissions to the Inquiry into the Fiscal Sustainability of the ACT. Amongst other recommendations, our Systemic Advocacy Submission highlighted the need to collect and report on the ‘Time’ domain within the ACT Wellbeing Framework, as it is critical to show the real scale and impact of caring and to support targeted budgeting. Our MHCV Submission called for mental health carers to be better recognised in activity-based funding within mental health services, helping to increase ACT health funding, gather better data on carers, and improve outcomes. Following our submissions, we were invited to present additional information at the Inquiry's public hearing in March.

    The teams also made submissions to the Inquiry into the Family Personal and Sexual Violence Amendments Bill 2025. Our Systemic Advocacy Submission, highlighted the unique dynamics that exist within caring relationships and how important is it for these to be considered in domestic and family and violence (DFV) response frameworks. Our MHCV Submission called for the integration of Carers Recognition Act 2021 across all ACT legislation to ensure carers are recognised across whole of government services. We also called for training for frontline staff in the justice system help them recognise carers in DFV cases and ensure trauma informed responses.

    We held our first Carer Collective Focus Group for the year where carers shared their experience with artificial intelligence (AI) Tools and Caring. We heard from carers about AI use in formal health, disability and aged care systems and how some are using it personally. We appreciate the insights and feedback of every carer who participated in the session. The feedback we gathered will be used to inform our systematic advocacy work. If you have ideas for our next Carer Collective Focus Group topic, please send those to: Carer.Advocacy@carersact.org.au

     

     

    The Kinship and Foster Carer team recently began facilitating the longstanding Carer Wellbeing Joint Committee. The Committee brings together carers, government and out of home care agencies to discuss policies and systems that affect the wellbeing of kinship and foster carers in the ACT.

    Following the first meeting of 2026 in February, nine new carer representatives were onboarded and invited to attend their first official meeting in March.

    We thank all members of the Carer Wellbeing Joint Committee, both new and continuing, and look forward to working together to support systemic improvements that strengthen the wellbeing of kinship and foster carers in the ACT.

     

     

    Crace Respite Cottage taking bookings

    The Crace Respite Cottage is welcoming new bookings. The cottage offers a calm, homely and supportive environment designed to give carers confidence and peace of mind while the person they care for enjoys meaningful activities and social connection.

    Crace is a purpose-built, 24/7 respite home offering day, overnight, short-term and emergency stays. The cottage supports older people and people living with dementia through activities such as cooking, gardening, arts and crafts, music, gentle movement and opportunities to connect with others. These experiences are designed to promote comfort and wellbeing while carers take time to rest.

    Crace operates alongside our established cottage in Isaacs as part of Carers ACT’s Cottage Respite Programme. Weekday programmes run Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, with flexible booking options available.

    Eligibility includes living in the ACT, being registered with My Aged Care, holding a cottage respite referral code and CHSP code, and being registered with Carers ACT.

    To find out more, check eligibility, or make a booking, call 02 6296 9949 or email cottages@carersact.org.au

     

    Day Respite Centre in Spence Open Days

    Come and experience our Day Respite Centre in Spence for yourself. We are now hosting open days on Fridays from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

    Join us for a relaxed morning tea, meet our friendly team, explore the space and see how the program supports both carers and the people they care for. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, learn how the service works and get a feel for the welcoming, community-based environment.

    Our Day Respite Centre provides a safe, engaging and structured daytime program for people who are ageing or living with dementia. Participants can take part in social, cognitive and gentle physical activities that support wellbeing, routine and connection. At the same time, carers can have reliable time during the day to rest, attend appointments, work or focus on their own wellbeing, knowing their loved one is supported with dignity and care.

    If you are considering respite or would simply like to learn more, this is a great opportunity to see the service in action and explore whether it is the right fit for you.

    To attend, please let us know by expressing your interest below.

    Click to express interest

     

    Expression of Interest: Walking the Journey Together Respite Retreat

    Would you like time away to rest, recharge and spend meaningful time with the person you care for?

    This shared respite retreat offers a gentle opportunity to step away from daily routines, focus on your wellbeing and connect in a supportive and understanding environment. It is a chance to pause, spend time together and feel supported alongside others who understand the caring role.

    Whether you are looking to reset, build confidence or simply take a break in a welcoming space, this retreat is designed to support both you and the person you care for.

    If this feels like something that could support you in your caring role, we encourage you to express your interest.

    Date: 20–24 April 2026
    Location: Canberra Rex Hotel, 150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon ACT
    Cost: $200 per couple (in addition to a My Aged Care Flexible Respite code)

    Please note: A My Aged Care Flexible Respite code is required to participate. If you are waiting for an assessment, My Aged Care codes, or are unsure about your options, please get in touch and our team can support you to explore what may be available.

    To express your interest, please complete the form here:
    https://bit.ly/4cXxpYr

     

     

    Young Carer Connect

    Are you a young carer aged 12–25, supporting a family member or friend?

    These sessions are a chance to connect with other young carers who understand what your day-to-day life can look like. You don’t need to explain everything — just being around others who “get it” can make a real difference.

    This is a safe and supportive space where you can share your experiences, talk about what’s on your mind, or simply listen and connect with others. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just want to meet people in a similar situation, you are welcome.

    Balancing caring with school, work and growing up isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. These sessions are here to support you, help you build confidence and connect you with others who understand.

    Dates:
    Tuesday 7 April
    Wednesday 15 April
    Time: 4:30pm to 5:30pm
    Location: Carers ACT: 80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt
    Cost: Free

    To register, please email young.carers@carersact.org.au

     

    Community Connection - Sunset Festival

    Young Carers Event – Woden

    Are you a young carer looking for something fun to do after school?

    The Woden Youth Centre is hosting a free event just for young people, with a relaxed, welcoming vibe where you can hang out, meet others and enjoy some time for yourself.

    There’ll be free pizza and drinks, fun activities, entertainment and the chance to connect with other young people. You don’t need to know anyone — just come along and be part of it.

    It’s a great opportunity to take a break from your caring role, try something different and spend time in a space where you can just be you.

    Date: Thursday 16 April
    Time: 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
    Location: Eddison Park, Woden Skate Park, Launceston Street, ACT
    Cost: Free – just come along

    For more information, contact Woden Youth Centre on 02 6282 2644 or visit: https://www.facebook.com/WodenYouthCentre/

     

     

    Celebrating Candice's Contribution to Carers

    After 13 years with Carers ACT, Candice is stepping into retirement, leaving behind a legacy of care, compassion and deep connection with the carers and colleagues she has supported over the years.

    Candice began her journey with Carers ACT in 2013. Reflecting on her time, she describes it as an experience filled with many emotions - “wonderful, sad, happy and frustrating at times” - but ultimately one that has been incredibly meaningful.

    Having been a carer herself, Candice brought both lived experience and empathy to her role. She shares that one of the most meaningful parts of her work has been listening to carers’ stories and being able to support them through different stages of their lives. She recognises that no two caring journeys are the same, and that each carer navigates their role in their own way.

    “Listening to the stories of what a carer is going through in their life and being able to support them through Carers ACT has been a privilege,” she says.

    Over the years, Candice has seen many changes in how support is delivered, but notes that the focus has always remained the same — ensuring carers and the people they care for are supported, recognised and valued. Through counselling, programs, groups, respite and one-on-one support, she has been proud to be part of an organisation that provides a safe space for carers to feel heard and understood.

    Beyond the work itself, Candice speaks warmly about the connections she has built with her colleagues. “The people you work with become family,” she reflects. “We not only care for carers, but also for each other.” These relationships, formed through shared experiences and supporting carers through both everyday challenges and times of crisis, have been a defining part of her time at Carers ACT.

    Looking back, Candice is proud of the role she has played, no matter how big or small, in supporting carers over the years. “I am proud that I have been able to make a small difference in the lives of the carers that I have been associated with… and hope that they have felt seen.”

    As she moves into this next chapter, Candice leaves the community with a message that reflects the warmth she has brought to her work: “To all that I have had even the slightest contact with, I wish you all well. Love and hugs, Candy.”

    From everyone at Carers ACT, we thank you for your service to carers, the people they care for and the broader Canberra community. You will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

     

     

    ABC NEWS: How respite services can make all the difference for those looking after others

    We would like to thank the carers who shared their stories so openly and courageously in a recent ABC Canberra News article featuring our new Day Respite Centre in Spence. Your voices matter and play an important role in helping others understand the realities of caring and why respite is essential, not optional.

    The article highlights the lived experiences of carers in our community and the difference that access to respite can make. For many carers, having time to step away from their caring role is not just a break, it is what allows them to continue. As one carer shared, “It’s wonderful because I can have all those hours of doing whatever I need to do… or I can just come home and breathe.”

    The story also reflects the challenges many carers face before accessing support, including recognising the signs of burnout. “Now I’m understanding that there is carer burnout,” one carer shared, highlighting how easy it is for caring responsibilities to build over time without the opportunity to pause and reset.

    Respite services like our Day Respite Centre in Spence provide meaningful outcomes for both carers and the people they care for. Participants benefit from social connection, engaging activities and a supportive environment, while carers are able to rest, attend to other parts of their life and maintain their own wellbeing. This balance is critical in sustaining caring relationships over time.

    At the same time, the article reinforces an important message for our community. Demand for respite in the ACT continues to outweigh availability, and many carers still face barriers when trying to access the support they need. Expanding the range and availability of respite options remains a key priority to ensure carers are supported in a way that is sustainable and responsive to their needs.

    At Carers ACT, we will continue to advocate for and deliver respite support that sustains carers and the people they care for.

    Thank you to the ABC for highlighting this important issue.

    Read the full article here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-01/respite-services-and-carers-act-canberra/106348298

     

    Federal Government response to the final report on the Inquiry into the Recognition of Unpaid Carers in Australia

    In 2023, the Federal Government launched an Inquiry into the Recognition of unpaid carers with view to reform the Carer Recognition Act 2010 (Cth) and address the ongoing challenges faced by carers in Australia.

    With input from local carers, Carers ACT lodged a submission highlighting the experiences of carers in the ACT, alongside recommendations to strengthen awareness, respect, choice, and accountability so that carers are properly valued and supported.

    Following the 2024 Committee Report's 22 recommendations, the Federal Government has released its response. Five recommendations received full support with several already being progressed, and these include:

    • Working with the carer sector to build capacity for high quality, diverse respite care. This has been included under commitment 1a of the National Carer Strategy Action Plan 2024-2027
    • Exploring how to increase access to high quality counselling and mental health support. Up to 10,000 additional phone counselling sessions are being funded annually through the Carer Gateway.
    • Targeted support for First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) carers, including cultural safety training. This has been included in the National Carer Strategy Action Plan, and Carer Gateway providers across the country monitoring First Nations data and CALD uptake more closely.
    • A co-designed National Carer Strategy to give effect to the Carers Recognitions Act 2010 (Cth) principles and address carer’s holistic needs. The National Carer Strategy was launched in December 2024 and will be overseen by a 15-member Carer Advisory Committee. 
    • An ongoing community education campaign to promote better understanding of carers. A comprehensive communication plan to promote awareness of carers, reduce stigma and increase awareness of Carer Gateway services has been included in the National Carer Strategy Action Plan.

    Twelve recommendations were supported in principle, with the Federal Government acknowledging the need for flexibility in implementation across legislation, funding programs, and jurisdictions.

    Five recommendations were “noted,” which means the Federal Government neither agreed nor disagreed with them. These included things like enforceable rights for carers, processes for addressing breaches of the Carer Recognition Act 2010, improved carer definitions in ABS surveys, tax credits for carers returning to work and more carer friendly employment policies in the Australian Public Service.

    While we welcome the supported recommendations, the inquiry highlighted the various challenges carers face and what is needed to address them. Significant action will be required before carers see practical improvements in their daily lives, and this will demand a coordinated, sustained approach across policy, funding, and service systems. Carers ACT will continue to raise these issues and push for action to ensure carers receive the recognition and support they deserve.

     

     

    5 Ways to Wellbeing

    Looking after your own wellbeing while caring for someone else is not always easy. The 5 Ways to Wellbeing is a simple, practical framework that can help you find small, realistic ways to support your mental and emotional health.

    These five areas are based on international research and can be built into your day in ways that feel manageable and meaningful. They also guide how we design many of our groups and activities at Carers ACT, helping ensure our programs support connection, wellbeing and balance in everyday life.

    Connect
    Staying connected with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and build a sense of support. This might be as simple as having a coffee with a friend, joining a carers group, going for a walk with someone you trust, or sending a message to check in with someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.

    Be Active
    Movement does not need to be intense to make a difference. Gentle activities like walking, stretching, gardening or attending a yoga or Tai Chi class can support both physical and mental wellbeing. Even short periods of movement throughout the day can help improve energy and mood.

    Keep Learning
    Learning something new can bring a sense of purpose, enjoyment and confidence. This could be trying a new recipe, picking up a hobby, watching a short online tutorial, or attending a workshop or group activity. Learning does not have to be formal — it can be anything that sparks your interest.

    Be Aware
    Taking time to notice what is happening around you and how you are feeling can help reduce stress. This might be pausing for a few moments of quiet, noticing your surroundings during a walk, or simply taking a breath before moving on to the next task. Small moments of awareness can help you reset during a busy day.

    Help Others
    Supporting others can strengthen your sense of connection and purpose. This could be sharing your experiences with another carer, offering a kind word, or participating in a group where carers support one another. Many carers find that helping others also supports their own wellbeing.

    Carers ACT offers a range of wellbeing activities designed around the 5 Ways to Wellbeing framework, providing opportunities to connect, stay active and take time for yourself.

    To explore upcoming wellbeing activities, visit or events portal: https://bit.ly/4q8cswR

     

     

    Wonderful World Festival - Canberra City

    If you are looking for a flexible and creative way to spend time together, the Wonderful World Festival may be a great opportunity for carers and the people they care for to get out, connect and enjoy something different.


    Held across the Canberra City Centre and Braddon, this new festival is designed to create moments of joy, creativity and shared experience across generations. The program includes live music, theatre, dance and interactive installations, with activities taking place in parks, streets and local venues throughout the week.

    For carers, this can be a chance to step away from daily routines and enjoy meaningful time together in a welcoming and relaxed environment. You can explore at your own pace, whether that is a short visit or spending a few hours discovering different parts of the program.

    The festival includes a mix of free and ticketed activities, so you can choose what works best for you and the person you care for.

    Date: 7–12 April 2026
    Location: Canberra City Centre and Braddon
    Cost: Free and ticketed events

    To explore the full program and plan your visit, go to: https://www.inthecity.com.au/wonderfulworld

    To explore the full program, visit: https://www.inthecity.com.au/wonderfulworld

     

    What to do this long weekend? We have ideas! 

    If you are looking for ways to spend time together over the Easter long weekend, there are a range of community events across Canberra that may offer simple, enjoyable opportunities for carers and the people they care for to get out, connect and share experiences.

    Whether you are after something low-key or a more structured outing, these activities provide flexible options to suit different needs, energy levels and interests.

    The Little Burley Market - Easter Egg Roll-a-thon

    Enjoy a relaxed, lakeside market atmosphere with family-friendly entertainment, Easter egg painting and the Easter Egg Roll-a-thon. This is a great option for a casual outing where you can come and go as needed.

     
    Date: Saturday 4 April 2026
    Time: Markets 9:00 am – 2:00 pm | Egg Roll-a-thon 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
    Location: Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes
    Cost: Free

    Easter Steam Train Rides - Canberra to Bungendore

    Experience a scenic heritage train journey through the Molonglo Gorge and surrounding countryside. This may be a meaningful shared experience for carers and the people they care for who enjoy slower-paced travel and views.

    Date: Friday 3 April – Sunday 5 April 2026
    Location: Canberra Railway Station, Kingston
    Cost: Ticketed (various options available)

    More info: www.picnictrain.com.au/canberra

    Haig Park Village Markets - Easter Activities

    Take part in a free Easter scavenger hunt, enjoy local food and market stalls, and watch or join the Easter Hat Parade. This event offers a mix of activity and flexibility, allowing you to engage at your own pace.

     
    Date: Sunday 5 April 2026
    Time: From 10:00 am
    Location: Haig Park, Braddon
    Cost: Free

    Canberra Miniature Railway - Easter Egg Grab

    A popular Easter event featuring Easter egg “grabs”, miniature train rides and a light show in the evening. This may suit carers supporting children, with structured sessions and clear timings.

     
    Date: Saturday 4 April – Sunday 5 April 2026
    Time: From 4:00 pm (egg grabs from 5:00 pm)
    Location: Canberra Miniature Railway, Symonston
    Cost: Ticketed (booking required)

    More info: https://trybooking.com/eventlist/cmr

     

    PlayConnect Plus Playgroups

    PlayConnect Plus offers supported playgroups for carers and the children they care for aged 0–8 years who have a disability or chronic medical condition.

    These sessions provide a welcoming space where carers can connect with others who understand the realities of caring, share experiences and learn from one another, while children engage in play and social activities in a supportive environment.

    Children can take part in a mix of free and structured activities including music, sensory play, stories, and fine and gross motor activities, supporting development, confidence and connection with others.

    Carers also have the opportunity to learn about available supports and services, while spending time with others in similar situations. No formal diagnosis is required to attend, and siblings are welcome.

    If you have any questions, please contact Playgroup ACT on 1800 171 882 or email play@playgroupact.org.au

    Date: 13, 14 and 16 April
    Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
    Location: The Castle Playroom ACT Playgroups, 41 Templeton Street, Cook ACT
    Cost: Free

     

    ACT Mental Health Consumer Network: Free Training - Introduction to Self-Advocacy

    The ACT Mental Health Consumer Network is offering a series of free, lived experience designed Self-Advocacy Workshops from April to June.

    Each session focuses on a different foundation of self-advocacy, from finding your voice and building confidence, to communicating assertively and making empowered decisions.

    The first session is titled: Introduction to Self-Advocacy: Finding Your Voice

    Discover what self-advocacy really means, and why your voice matters.
    This session explores the different types of advocacy, what it means to speak up for yourself, and how to recognise your strengths. Whether you're new to self-advocacy or wanting a refresher, you’ll learn simple tools to help you communicate your needs with more confidence and clarity.
    Perfect for anyone wanting to take the first step in speaking up at home, with services, or in the community.

    This workshop is part of our Self-Advocacy Series, designed to help you build confidence, communication skills, and a stronger sense of personal power. Each session stands alone, so you’re welcome to come to the topics that interest you or join the whole series. Every workshop offers practical tools, support, and space to learn at your own pace.

    Date: Wednesday 15 April, 2026

    Time: 10:30am to 1:00pm

    Location: The Network Members’ Area, Level 2, The Griffin Centre, 20 Genge Street, Canberra City

    To register: call 02 6230 5796 or email education@actmhcn.org.au 

    For more information visit: https://actmhcn.civicrm.com.au/

     

    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 Gateway

    The 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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