Holiday Edition featuring key seasonal updates, upcoming events and programmes for carers, important service information, advocacy news and more.
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December 2025

 

 

Holiday Operating Hours for Carers ACT

As we move into the holiday period, we want to ensure carers are aware of our service availability and any changes that may affect support at this time. Carer Gateway and our Post Hospital Support (PHSP) programme will remain open throughout the break, including 24 December and 29–31 December, although with reduced staffing on some days.

Our cottage respite services and the Hub will close from 19 December and reopen on 5 January, and our Holt office will remain open until 24 December. We recognise that the holiday season can bring added pressures for carers, and we encourage you to reach out if you need assistance.

The Carer Gateway will remain open from 8 am to 5 pm every day except public holidays. If you need support, please call 1800 422 737.

 


As we reflect on a vibrant National Carers Week 2025, I want to extend my sincere thanks to every carer, community partner, supporter and staff member who helped make it a meaningful celebration. The theme “A Community that Cares for Carers” was brought to life across a week of carer-led events including a cocktail party at the Arboretum, a cultural dinner and smoking ceremony at Wildbark, a peaceful walk at the Botanic Gardens and a youth celebration at Kingpin. These gatherings provided moments of rest, joy and connection — and reminded us that carers are the foundation of our care system.


We were proud to engage with workplaces such as the Australian Tax Office and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to raise awareness of unpaid caring, and to support Violet’s Care Compass launch at the Legislative Assembly. October also marked Mental Health Month, with our Mental Health Carers Voice team playing a leading role in cross-sector advocacy, recognition and distributing a unique survey gauging the experiences of mental health carers in the ACT.

Our recently released Annual Report reflects the depth and breadth of what we’ve achieved together. Over the past year, Carers ACT supported more than 4,000 carers, delivered over 1,200 counselling and coaching sessions, ran nearly 1,500 activities and expanded services across the Territory. Our advocacy efforts helped secure election commitments on 6 of 8 priority issues, and 96 per cent of staff say they’re proud to work here — a reflection of the strong culture of care at the heart of our organisation.


Recently, I had the privilege of joining young carers from across Australia at Parliament House for the Parliamentary Friends of Carers event, hosted by Carers Australia and the National Carer Network. Young carers shared their experiences directly with MPs, Senators and advisers, highlighting the realities of balancing school, caring responsibilities and their own wellbeing. Their voices play a vital role in shaping policy, particularly around educational equity and access to supports such as the Young Carer Bursary. I want to acknowledge the courage and insight of every young carer who contributed, your leadership ensures young carers continue to be seen, heard and valued at a national level.

As we approach the end of the year and head into the holiday period, I want to acknowledge that while this season can be a time of celebration, it can also bring added pressure, fatigue and isolation for many carers. Balancing caring responsibilities with festive expectations can be overwhelming, and moments of rest can feel out of reach. To every carer navigating this period: thank you! We see your commitment, and resilience that drives the care you provide.
I also encourage our broader community to recognise carers during this time to check in, offer support where they can, and shine a light on the vital role carers play in keeping families and communities strong.

Thank you for your continued trust in Carers ACT. Together, we are building a more inclusive, informed and caring Canberra, and I look forward to what we will achieve next.


Warm wishes,



Cain Beckett 

CEO

In this Newsletter

  • Message from the CEO - A personal update on what’s been happening and what’s ahead at Carers ACT
  • Carers ACT - At a Glance - A quick look at what’s been 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.
  • Support For Carers - Carers ACT services and supports for you in your caring role.
  • Meet The Team - Meet the people behind the work at Carers ACT.
  • National and Local 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.

 

Crace Respite Cottage now open for bookings

The Crace Respite Cottage is now open and welcoming bookings. Officially launched during Carers Week, the new 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 programes 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

 

 

National Carers Week 2025

From 12 to 18 October, we celebrated Australia’s unpaid carers and the essential role they play every day. This year’s ACT theme, “A Community that Cares for Carers,” guided our work and reflected our wider goal for 2025: creating more moments of connection, recognition and support for carers across the Territory.

Carers Week events
Carers joined us for a meaningful week of reflection, community and celebration. Our annual Carers Cocktail Party at the National Arboretum brought carers together for an evening of music, connection and shared stories. At Wildbark, Ngunnawal Kamilaroi custodian Richie Allen led a special Smoking Ceremony and Dinner honouring First Nations carers and the cultural strength they bring to our community. We also officially opened our new respite cottage in Crace, marking an important milestone for respite services in the ACT. Throughout the week, carers enjoyed a peaceful morning walk at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, a joyful Kingpin celebration for young carers, and a dementia-friendly screening of Send Me No Flowers at the National Film and Sound Archive.


Workplace and community engagement
Across the week, our team attended community events, workplace sessions and local gatherings to improve understanding of who carers are and how caring responsibilities shape daily life. We shared information on supports available through Carers ACT and the Carer Gateway, encouraged organisations to build more carer-friendly workplaces, and strengthened partnerships with employers and community groups who want to better support carers in their teams and networks. These engagements help create environments where carers feel recognised, understood and supported.

Carers Week activations
Did you see the Carers Week displays around Canberra? To mark the start of the week, the National Carillon was illuminated in Carers ACT teal — a beautiful tribute to the thousands of carers across our region. Our awareness campaign also featured large digital billboards at Canberra Airport and the National Convention Centre, along with smaller electronic billboards throughout Civic, Fyshwick and Gungahlin. Each activation was designed to raise awareness, spark conversations and make carers more visible in our community.

A heartfelt thank you
Thank you to every carer who joined us throughout Carers Week. Your presence, your stories and your strength made each event meaningful. We are honoured to walk alongside you — not only during Carers Week, but every day of the year.

 

2024–25 Annual Report – A Year of Connection, Care and Community

We’re pleased to share that the Carers ACT 2024–25 Annual Report is now live on our website. This year’s report takes a refreshed, carer-centred approach, celebrating the programs, services and partnerships that strengthened the wellbeing of carers and the people they care for across our community.


Guided by the 5 Ways to Wellbeing framework, our programs supported carers to stay active, connected, aware, continuously learning and supported by others.


Across the year:

  • 1,425 carers received tailored assistance through the Carer Gateway
  • 525 carers took part in social respite activities that helped build connection and balance
  • 118 carers accessed essential breaks through our respite cottages
  • 497 carers joined “Connect” activities such as carer catch-ups, art groups and peer circles
  • 373 carers took part in learning programs that built confidence and new skills
  • 79 people with disability received support to live more independently through Support Coordination
  • 21 participants strengthened their life skill capacity, confidence, independence and social connection through The Hub program

The report also shares stories from carers, highlights from Carers Week and Mental Health Week, and showcases the meaningful impact of our partnerships and advocacy work.

We invite you to explore the interactive report and reflect on the many ways our community continues to recognise, support and care for carers.


Read the 2024–25 Annual Report on our website - Carers ACT Annual Report 2024–25

 

 

The Hub Disability Day Program

It has been a lively few months at the Hub, with our community taking part in activities that build confidence, spark curiosity and strengthen social connection.


As part of Science Week, the group explored a travelling water experiment, watching colours blend and learning how water moves through paper towels. It was a simple, hands-on activity that encouraged creativity and supported learning in a relaxed, fun environment.

The Hub team, also joined the People and Culture team to celebrate Diwali along with Carers ACT staff and shared a beautiful lunch and enjoyed the festival of lights together, reflecting the cultural diversity and sense of community that sit at the heart of our programs.

More recently, the Hub community attended their annual Christmas party lunch at our Naraganwali Cottage in Isaacs where they practised their independence by selecting healthy food items from the buffet, enjoyed social time together, and were delighted by a joyful visit from Santa, who brought laughter, gifts and plenty of festive cheer.

Each month, the Hub offers a mix of activities designed to support social and independent living skills, develop individual interests and abilities, and encourage meaningful participation in the community.

If you care for someone with a mild to moderate disability who may benefit from visiting our day program, please email the.hub@carersact.org.au or call 0413 997 466.

The Hub operates Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4.30 pm

 

 

The Policy and Advocacy Team met with the Minister for Carers, Suzanne Orr (MLA), this month to discuss ways to progress the ACT Carers Recognition Card. Our policy officers have developed a comprehensive scoping document to support the implementation, drawing on successful programs from other states and internationally.


Naturally, we also raised the ongoing issue of respite in the ACT and the serious impacts it is having on carers. Minister Orr agreed to pursue a meeting in the new year with the Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith (MLA), Carers ACT and herself to have an in-depth discussion about the issue.


Two inquiries are currently open and will close in December: The Inquiry into ACT Health System Data, Demand and Processes, and the Inquiry into the Provision of Municipal Services in Canberra. We are preparing submissions that centre on carers, highlighting how gaps in health data, service planning, and municipal services directly affect their wellbeing and ability to stay connected.


This month, MHCV continued to strengthen carer-inclusive practice across the ACT Mental Health system, partnering with Canberra Health Services’ Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) to deliver Carer Experience Survey (CES) orientation sessions. CAMHS teams have shown strong enthusiasm for embedding the CES, which provides mental health carers with an online survey to provide feedback that supports service improvement.


MHCV also attended the Centre for Mental Health Research’s 50th Anniversary at the Australian National University, reflecting on five decades of contribution to mental health research. Current researchers showcased past and present innovative projects, including the development of Mental Health First Aid training.


The Mental Health Carers Survey has now closed, with approximately 160 responses received from Mental Health carers across our region. These insights will directly shape our advocacy work, and a summary report will be released in 2026.


At the end of November, MHCV and Carers ACT will appear before the ACT Legislative Assembly Inquiry into men’s suicide rates to provide evidence. The Inquiry is examining the drivers of high suicide rates among men in the ACT, including patterns of service use, risk behaviours, and broader social and emotional factors, as well as explore opportunities to strengthen mental health care and support for boys and men. You can find out more information on the Inquiry here: Inquiry into men’s suicide rates - ACT Legislative Assembly and read our submission. Please note that some content may include sensitive themes which may be distressing for some people.


In December, MHCV will also deliver the final two CES training sessions with CAMHS teams, continuing the rollout and awareness of the survey across the service, while exploring opportunities to expand the series into the new year with additional teams. We will also celebrate the end of the year with our Advocacy and Policy Advisory Group (APAG) members whose ongoing dedication, expertise, and lived and living experience, have provided invaluable guidance across our engagement, policy, and system-reform activities throughout 2025.

 

 

Our Kinship and Foster Carer Advocacy team attended the Listening, Learning, Leading Conference at the Australian Catholic University, marking two decades of partnership between the ACT Health and Community Services Directorate and ACU’s Institute of Child Protection Studies.


The program featured research presentations and keynote speakers, offering an insightful look at emerging directions in policy and practice for children and carers in Canberra. We look forward to building on the learnings from this valuable conference in the individual and systemic advocacy work we do for kinship and foster carers.

 

 

 

Cuban Drumming Class

Would you like to learn Cuban drumming with other carers? Experience culture, community, and social connection while learning rhythms in a supportive group setting.

  • Dates: Tuesdays - December 16, December 23
  • Time: 1:30pm to 2:30pm
  • Cost: Free
  • Where: 193 Copland Drive, Spence

Click this link to register for one the above classes: CA Event Web Page

 

Op-Shop Day Trip for Carers

If you enjoy browsing for hidden treasures or simply love a relaxed day out with good company, we invite you to join our Op Shop Day Trip for carers. Together, we will explore some of Canberra’s favourite op shops — from clothing and books to homewares and vintage finds, with stops at Salvos, Lifeline and St Vincent de Paul stores in Belconnen and Dickson.

This outing is a chance to unwind, connect with other carers and enjoy a shared lunch in a supportive and friendly group. Whether you find a bargain or just enjoy the company, it’s a lovely way to take a break before the holiday season.


Date: Thursday 11 December 

Time: 10 am - 4 pm

Where: Meet at 2/80 Beaurepaire Cresent, Holt 

Cost: Free to attend, with lunch included (op shop purchases are at your own expense)

Register here:
https://bit.ly/4oDqAgP

Please note:
All participants must now have a Social Support and Community Engagement Code to join CHSP-funded events.

 

Christmas Lights Night Tour

The festive season can be a special time of year, and we know it can also be a busy, emotional or overwhelming season for many carers. If you would like a moment to pause, connect with others and enjoy something joyful, we invite you to join us for a relaxed evening exploring Canberra’s most magical Christmas light displays.

This free night tour is a chance to soak up the festive atmosphere with other carers, enjoy light refreshments and experience the creativity of households across Canberra who bring their neighbourhoods to life each December. 

Date: Friday 19 December 2025
Time: 7 pm to 10 pm
Where: Meet at 193 Copland Drive, Spence
Cost: Free tour and light refreshments

Register here: https://bit.ly/4rGsyzC

Please note: All participants must now have a Social Support and Community Engagement Code to join CHSP-funded events.

 

Old Bus Depot Markets and Antiques Day Trip

If you enjoy browsing for vintage treasures, collectibles or unique homewares, we invite you to join our day trip to the Old Bus Depot Markets and some of Canberra’s best antique stores. This outing is a lovely opportunity to explore at your own pace, enjoy lunch together and connect with other carers in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Whether you are hunting for a special find or simply enjoying the atmosphere of the markets, it’s a great way to take time for yourself before the festive season.

Date: Thursday 18 December 2025
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Meet at 2/80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt
Cost: Free to attend, with lunch included (antique shopping is at your own expense)

Register here: https://bit.ly/3Km4Ub0

Please note: All participants must now have a Social Support and Community Engagement Code to join CHSP-funded events.

 

Cherry Picking and Garden Day Trip – Ballinaclash Orchard

Ballinaclash Cherry Orchard in Young. This trip offers a gentle change of pace: you can pick and taste fresh cherries straight from the orchard, enjoy a relaxed pub meal at the Young Services Club, and unwind in the beautiful historic Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens.

It’s a lovely opportunity to take a break, enjoy the outdoors and connect with other carers in a supportive and friendly group.

Date: Wednesday 17 December 2025
Time: 7.30 am to 5.30 pm
Where: Meet at 193 Copland Drive, Spence
Cost: $10 per person (please bring money for lunch at the Young Services Club)

Register here: https://bit.ly/4pogrWf


Please note: All participants must have a valid My Aged Care number and a Social Support and Community Engagement Code to join CHSP-funded events. You will also need sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes.

 

 

Meet the Team: Welcoming Victoria Dolphin, Chief Services Officer, Carers ACT

We are delighted to welcome Victoria Dolphin to Carers ACT as our new Chief Services Officer. Victoria was drawn to the organisation because, in her words, “Carers ACT does purposeful work, and it’s so important to me to work in a role that makes a tangible difference to vulnerable members of the community.” The opportunity to learn from leaders she admires, and to work alongside people who are “keen, community minded and motivated”, made joining Carers ACT an easy choice.


Victoria is passionate about people and deeply values diverse views and experience. Taking on responsibility for frontline services is something described as a privilege. “What I can already see is that I have the privilege of driving activity in all our frontline services,” Victoria says. “We have succeeded in our role if each carer we serve feels like a weight has lifted, even if it’s just short term, because of something we have initiated.”


When reflecting on the challenges of community-sector service delivery, Victoria notes that the greatest difficulty is meeting individual needs in a meaningful way within a complex environment. Strong leadership plays an important role here. “My greatest strength is recognising the expertise of others, creating a forum to workshop ideas, and providing direction that brings these ideas to fruition,” Victoria says. “I recognise that I cannot do this job without a passionate team, and I look forward to working with all of you to achieve great things.”


Outside of work, Victoria finds joy in the simple things. "Family life keeps everything in perspective, and small, everyday moments, like the weather photographs on ABC news, serve as gentle reminders to pause and appreciate beauty. Knitting has become a calming new hobby, even if the creations are not quite ready for the outside world."


Victoria’s message to the carer community is heartfelt and sincere: “I can’t wait to hear your stories.”

 

 

Update on the New Aged Care Act

The new Aged Care Act came into effect on 1 November 2025, replacing the previous legislation and introducing a stronger, rights-based approach to aged care in Australia. The Act aims to make the system easier to understand, safer, and more respectful of the needs, choices, and cultural backgrounds of older people, carers and their families. It also aligns with the rollout of the new Support at Home program.


To help older people, carers, and families understand what is changing, the Australian Government has released two free online learning modules:


Module 1: Your guide to the Aged Care Act 2024 - Covers the rights of older people, what aged care services will look like under the new Act, and how to access safe and high-quality care.


Module 2: Aligning to changes - Explains when changes will occur, what people may need to do to prepare, how supported decision-making works, and how to navigate in-home care, residential care, and complaints processes.


Printable and offline versions are available for those who prefer not to complete the training online and can also be used by carers and workers to support conversations about the reforms.


Module 1

Module 2


Additional resources, including information about Support at Home and culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older people, are available in the older person section of the national Resource Hub.


These resources are designed to help older people and their carers feel confident and informed as the new aged care system is implemented.

 

How we collect and use your information under the new Aged Care Act

How we collect and use your information under the new Aged Care Act

With the new Aged Care Act starting on 1 November 2025, there are changes to how aged care providers must collect and report information when delivering Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services. We want to explain these changes in a simple way so you know how your information is handled and protected. Your information continues to be protected under the Commonwealth Privacy Act.

As required, the following information must be provided to all CHSP clients:

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (DoHDA) provides grant funding to providers of aged care services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).
- CHSP providers must report on the delivery of CHSP services to DoHDA via the Data Exchange (DEX).
- The Data Exchange is an IT system hosted by the Department of Social Services (DSS).
- DSS, on behalf of DoHDA, collects information (including information about the services you receive and an encrypted version of your My Aged Care ID) and stores this as a de-identified record in the Data Exchange.
- With the exception of the My Aged Care ID, DSS de-identifies and aggregates personal information stored in the system for policy development, grants administration, research and evaluation. This de-identified information cannot be used to identify you.
- The DSS privacy policy is available on its website and outlines how you may access or correct your personal information, how to make a privacy complaint, and how DSS will respond. It also explains circumstances where DSS may disclose information to overseas recipients.

A note for carers receiving Carer Allowance or Carer Payment

Services Australia allows carers to take up to 63 days of respite each calendar year without their payment stopping. A calendar year is from 1 January to 31 December.


You can use these respite days for any purpose, including:
- Taking a short break
- Going on holiday
- Resting and recharging

If the person you care for is hospitalised and over the age of 16, you may also use hospitalisation days, which are treated separately from respite days.

You can read more at Services Australia: Breaks from caring when you get Carer Allowance.

If you have any questions about how your information is collected, stored or used, please contact Carers ACT:

E: carers@carersact.org.au
P: 02 6296 9900

 

Update on Voluntary Assisted Dying Legislation in the ACT

Voluntary assisted dying is now an end-of-life choice available to eligible Canberrans, alongside palliative care and other supports, as part of a holistic approach to end-of-life planning in the ACT. The introduction of this legislation provides individuals with the opportunity to make informed and autonomous decisions that align with their rights, values and preferences.


We acknowledge that people hold diverse cultural, spiritual and personal beliefs about voluntary assisted dying, and we encourage respectful conversations and support.


A dedicated voluntary assisted dying Care Navigation Service has been established by Canberra Health Services to support individuals, their carers and families, health practitioners and service providers seeking information. Care Navigators can explain eligibility requirements, answer questions and provide guidance through each stage of the process.


Health professionals may refuse to participate in any part of the voluntary assisted dying process if they hold a conscientious objection. However, they must not block, delay or hinder a person from seeking information or accessing voluntary assisted dying, as doing so is an offence under the Act.


To speak with a Care Navigator, call 5124 1888 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday.


For more information, visit act.gov.au and search “voluntary assisted dying”.


If this topic raises distress or uncertainty for you or your family, support is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Griefline on 1300 845 745.


Carers ACT has also developed a Voluntary Assisted Dying Policy to support carers with clear information about our role and responsibilities if someone they care for is considering voluntary assisted dying. 


The policy is available on our website at: https://www.carersact.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Voluntary-Assisted-Dying-Policy-2025.pdf

 

Key Findings on Carer Wellbeing for 2025

Thank you to every carer who contributed to Carers Australia’s 2025 Carer Wellbeing Survey.


Why this survey matters

Your insights help build a clearer picture of what life is really like for unpaid carers, ensuring that decision-makers, researchers, and service providers understand the challenges you face, the support you need, and the impact caring has on wellbeing over time. At the same time, your experiences guide our services, shape our advocacy, and influence decision-makers, providing the evidence we need to push for improved respite, financial support, workplace flexibility, inclusive policy design, and a system that recognises carers as essential partners in health, disability, and mental health care.


Data in action

These findings reflect what many carers tell us every day. While the challenges highlighted in this year’s survey are significant, they also guide our priorities and help us work toward a community that genuinely cares for carers. Each newsletter we will highlight some data and let you know how it is informing our advocacy and our service delivery.




A decline in carer wellbeing


We know carers are under increasing pressure, and the decline in wellbeing reflected in this year’s survey mirrors what you share with us.


Responding through service delivery: Carers ACT has expanded access to respite, strengthened group programs, and improved pathways to counselling and coaching through the Carer Gateway. We also offer a range of specialised wellbeing activities created specifically for carers, including Tai Chi, yoga, art and craft classes, wellness walks and dinners, and nutrition and wellbeing sessions. These programs are designed to give carers space to rest, reconnect and focus on their own health.


Responding through advocacy: The Policy and Advocacy team is currently drafting its budget submissions, using this data alongside the ACT Government’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of all Canberrans. Our focus is to ensure carer wellbeing is considered in budget decision-making. Did you know that the ACT Government actively monitors wellbeing data to track improvements across the community?

 

 

How Nutrition Can Help Carers

We recently spoke with Justin Aniello, an Accredited Practising Dietitian who runs monthly nutrition workshops at Carers ACT. Justin shared why good nutrition matters for carers and how small, realistic changes can make a meaningful difference.


As caring responsibilities increase, nutrition is often pushed aside. Meals can become something to simply get through the day rather than something that supports health. Research shows this is common. For example, around 65 per cent of carers supporting someone with Alzheimer’s experience low nutritional status, which can lead to low energy, poor mood, illness and fatigue.


Justin emphasises that improving nutrition does not have to feel overwhelming. Small adjustments — such as choosing convenient but nutritious meals, keeping a simple list of go-to dishes, or eating similar meals to the person you care for — can save time, lower stress and support wellbeing for both you and your loved one.


Carers who attend the workshops often notice early improvements. Some report steadier blood sugar levels, others increase their protein intake to maintain strength and reduce muscle loss, and many say they feel more energetic and better able to manage daily tasks.


Justin highlights the clear link between nutrition, energy, mood, cognition and physical function. When carers feel well-nourished, activities such as appointments, community outings and everyday responsibilities become easier and more enjoyable.


Each workshop offers a supportive, practical space to share experiences and learn strategies that can be put into practice straight away. Justin thanks all current participants and welcomes any carer who would like to come along, learn something new and feel supported.


Keep an eye out for Justin's nutrition workshops for 2026 on the Events portal and the What's On weekly newsletter.

 

 

Accessilife – An online resource created by a carer, for carers

Accessilife is a new Canberra-based online platform created by a carer who understands the day-to-day realities of supporting someone with disability. Built from lived experience, it aims to make life easier for families by bringing trusted disability providers, products and events together in one place so carers can find what they need quickly and confidently.

 

What carers can explore on Accessilife

• A community marketplace where carers can share or sell quality pre-loved items that may support another family.

• A diverse provider directory featuring everything from small carer-led micro-businesses to large national and international suppliers.
• A community noticeboard highlighting events, workshops, expos, peer groups and connections designed to support carer wellbeing and learning.

 

Key features of the platform

• Everything in one place – a central, easy-to-navigate hub for providers, products, and events.
• Supports a wide range of needs – from everyday items to specialised equipment.
• NDIS and beyond – includes both registered and non-registered providers

• Easy to use – simple keyword and category searches so carers can find what they need in minutes. 

• Accessible anytime – free to register and available whenever carers need it.
• Created by people who understand – built by a carer with real-life insight to the challenges, choices and information overload that often come with the caring journey.


Registering for Accessilife is free and only takes a few minutes, making it easier for carers to feel informed, supported and connected.


Explore the platform at: www.accessilife.com.au

 

Helpful services over the holiday period

To support your planning over the holidays, here are some helpful updates on local services, transport and events that may be useful for you and the person you care for.

Bin collection changes
There will be no household bin collections on Christmas Day, Thursday 25 December. If your bin is normally collected on this day, it will be emptied on Saturday 27 December instead. All other collection days remain the same.
More information: Household bins - City Services

Recycling centres – open 24/7 over the holidays
Recycling drop-off centres across Canberra remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including Christmas Day. Items such as paper, most wrapping paper, cans, cardboard and hard plastics can be taken to any drop-off point.
Hazardous waste, including batteries and gas bottles, must not go in household bins. These can be taken to the Mugga Lane or Mitchell Resource Management Centres.
Recycling centres: Facilities and drop off - City Services
Hazardous waste: Hazardous waste - City Services

Where to go if you are sick or injured
Walk-in Centres provide free, seven-day-a-week care for minor illness and injury when GP practices may be closed – Walk-in Centres (WiC) - Canberra Health Services

Celebrate Christmas in the city
Find Christmas events, activities and celebrations happening across the city throughout December - Canberra City Centre


Public transport – free on Christmas Day
Bus and light rail services will be free on Christmas Day. Tapping on and off is still encouraged so your free travel is recorded – Timetables and information: Home - Transport Canberra

 

Be prepared for emergencies this summer

As we head into the summer months, it can be helpful to take a moment to think about how you and the person you care for would stay informed in the event of a bushfire, storm or flood. Emergencies can bring added pressure for carers, and having simple plans in place can make it easier to respond calmly and stay connected to reliable updates.

The ABC’s emergency resources offer clear, easy-to-use tools to help you prepare:

  • Action plan – Use the step-by-step guides on the ABC Emergency website to create a plan that suits your home, your caring role and your local area.
  • Be safe – Access practical safety tips to help you make decisions during an emergency.
  • Connect – If your area is under threat, tune in to your local ABC Radio station for the most up-to-date and verified information.

ABC Emergency resources: Plan for an Emergency - ABC Emergency

Celebrate New Year’s Eve by Lake Burley Griffin

You are invited to welcome 2026 with a free New Year’s Eve celebration along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. From 6 pm, four lakeside hubs will host food trucks, local DJs and a relaxed picnic atmosphere, with fireworks displays at 9 pm and midnight.


Celebration hubs will be located at:

  • Rond Terrace
  • Wendouree Drive
  • John Dunmore Lang Place (Commonwealth Place)
  • Ferry Gate (Regatta Point)

Please note: there will be no hub at Barrine Drive (Regatta Point) this year due to construction and roadworks.


A synchronised soundtrack will accompany both fireworks displays, with Mix 106.3 broadcasting the music live for those watching from home or other vantage points.


Food trucks, first aid, toilets and security will be available at each hub. Canberrans are encouraged to continue the celebration by supporting local venues after the fireworks.
With large crowds expected, public transport is recommended. Transport information and an event map will be available soon.


Event details: New Year's Eve | New Year's Eve
Transport: Home - Transport Canberra

 

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.


Crace Respite Cottage now open for bookings

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