Carers Australia recognises the vital role that carers play in supporting Defence members, as well as the Australian Defence Force (ADF) members who provide unpaid care. 

Many carers don’t realise they are one. In particular, carers within the ADF and those who care for current and former ADF members are often overlooked and under-identified.  

Following the findings of the 2019 ADF Families Survey, the Department of Defence’s Family Support Funding Program funded Carers Australia to provide information and support to current and former ADF members and their families, where the current or ex-serving member is a carer, is being cared for, or has been impacted by the caring role. 

The aim of this page is to connect individuals, families and communities to support and resources, and provide an advocacy platform for this unique group of carers.

Podcast: The Secret Life of Carers

In Season Four of The Secret Life of Carers, we focus on defence members and their partner and/or carers. Julia Michel (founder of The Home Post community) who will share her expertise and lived experience as a defence partner and carer.

We want to hear your story

Getting the support you need as a carer

Around one in eight of the over half a million Australians who have served or are currently serving in the ADF have a partner, parent, sibling or child who provides care and support for them because of disability, long-term health conditions or old age. 

This is a significantly higher rate than the rest of the Australian population, because of higher rates of long-term health issues in ADF personnel and veterans. 

Although the Department of Defence offers some support services around the caring role, external supports might be more appropriate for your situation. Unfortunately, carers within the ADF often incorrectly feel they cannot get additional external support and generally do not seek it out. 

Carer supports in your State or Territory

Support organisations you may already know