Caregiver Support: Essential Resources and Strategies for Coping
Caring for a loved one is a meaningful responsibility, but it’s also one that can take an emotional, physical, and psychological toll. Across Australia and New Zealand, thousands of carers dedicate themselves to supporting loved ones and individuals living with chronic illness or disability.
While this role is often undertaken with love, the pressure can be overwhelming without proper support systems.
In this blog:
At Tunstall Healthcare, we understand the critical role caregivers play—not only in the lives of individuals but in the broader healthcare ecosystem. This blog explores the essential resources, support networks, and self-care strategies that caregivers can use to protect their well-being and prevent burnout.
The Caregiving Landscape
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), more than 3 million Australians are informal carers. Of these, around 1.2 million are primary carers, responsible for the bulk of the care provided. In New Zealand, the number of carers is more than 400,000.
These caregivers often juggle multiple roles—parenting, employment, household responsibilities—while providing complex care for someone with additional needs.
The physical and emotional strain can be significant, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and even long-term health issues. It’s no surprise that carer burnout is an all-too-common reality. Fortunately, a range of resources and strategies are available to help lighten the load.
Related Reading: Helpful Tips for New Carers Starting Their Caregiving Journey
1. Accessing Support Services
Australia has a strong network of formal supports for carers. Whether you’re just beginning your caregiving journey or have been in the role for years, accessing these services can make a huge difference.
Carer Gateway
Carer Gateway is a government-funded program offering free services for carers, including:
Counselling and coaching
Emergency respite
Carer support planning
Peer support groups
Practical assistance, like help with transport or meal preparation
You can contact Carer Gateway by calling 1800 422 737 or visiting carergateway.gov.au.
Carers New Zealand
Carers NZ is the national peak body for carers in New Zealand and is the legal umbrella of non-profit organizations like CareWise, Work + Learn, WeCare, and LetsEndLoneliness. It:
Ensures awareness about carers
Promote the interests of family carers
Supports new carer organizations
Provides resources for carers
You can contact Carers NZ at 0800 777 797 or visit their website at Carers.net.nz
Related Reading: Looking After Yourself: Care and Well-being Tips for Non-Professional Carers
2. Building a Support Network
Isolation is one of the biggest challenges caregivers face. It’s easy to feel like you’re on your own, but connecting with others can provide both emotional relief and practical guidance.
Peer Support Groups
Sharing experiences with others who understand the journey can be empowering. Peer support groups—whether in-person or online—offer a safe space to express emotions, swap advice, and learn new coping mechanisms.
Australian organisations like Carers NSW, Carers Victoria, and Carers Queensland host regional support groups. New Zealand carers can get peer support through Caring Families Aotearoa and Parent to Parent.
For those in rural or remote areas, online forums and Facebook communities can also be a lifeline.
Family and Friends
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from those closest to you. Delegating tasks like grocery shopping, meal preparation, or attending medical appointments can alleviate the mental load. Even a regular chat over a cuppa can lift spirits and help you feel less alone.
3. Embracing Assistive Technology
Technology can be a game-changer for caregivers. Personal safety alarms, fall detectors, GPS trackers, and medication reminders can enhance the independence of the person you're caring for—while giving you peace of mind.
At Tunstall, we offer telecare and telehealth solutions designed specifically for aged care and chronic condition management. Our personal alarms and home sensors are discreet, easy to use, and monitored around the clock. These technologies:
Reduce the need for constant physical supervision
Provide real-time alerts during emergencies
Help carers monitor wellbeing remotely
By incorporating these tools, caregivers can reduce stress, improve safety, and enjoy a more balanced lifestyle.
4. Prioritising Self-Care
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s a survival strategy. Carers who neglect their own needs are at higher risk of burnout, depression, and physical illness. Creating time for rest and rejuvenation is vital. Here is what you need to do:
Create Daily Rituals -Even small routines, like enjoying your morning tea without interruptions or taking a 10-minute walk, can restore a sense of calm and control.
Exercise and Nutrition - Movement is a powerful stress reliever—whether it’s a yoga class, gardening, or a walk with a friend, physical activity can lift your mood and boost energy. Pair this with a balanced diet to nourish your body and mind.
Sleep and Mindfulness - Quality sleep is the cornerstone of well-being—aim for 7-9 hours. If stress or anxiety keeps you up, try mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm, or practise breathing exercises before bed.
Also, take breaks, find joyful activities, set boundaries, and manage stress. Don’t forget to stay connected with your family and friends to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Related Reading: Taking Care of Yourself While Caring for Others
5. Knowing the Signs of Burnout
Being aware of your mental and emotional state is key. SANE Australia recommends watching out for:
Constant fatigue or insomnia
Loss of interest in hobbies
Increased irritability or anxiety
Feelings of hopelessness or resentment
Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pain
Decreased satisfaction with your work
If you notice these signs, it may be time to take a step back and re-evaluate your support systems. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a GP, counsellor, or mental health professional.
6. Financial and Employment Support
Many caregivers experience financial strain, especially those who reduce work hours or leave their jobs entirely. For instance, Australian carers are 1.6 times more likely to experience financial stress compared to other Australians.
Fortunately, support is available. In Australia, Services Australia offers two key payments for eligible carers:
Carer Payment– An income support payment for full-time carers
Carer Allowance– A supplementary payment for those providing daily care
Visit servicesaustralia.gov.au for eligibility criteria and application support.
In New Zealand, carers can get support through:
The Supported Living Payment- An income for carers who provide full-time support
Carer Support Subsidy- This helps with the costs of caring for a disabled person and can be accessed through Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC).
Under Australian and New Zealand workplace laws, caregivers have the right to request flexible working arrangements. This might include part-time hours, job sharing, or working from home —options that can make caregiving more sustainable.
Related Reading: Know Your Rights: Basic Carers' Rights and Responsibilities in Australia and New Zealand
7. Planning for the Future
Long-term planning is an important part of the caregiving role. While it can be uncomfortable, having conversations about legal, medical, and financial wishes ensures everyone is on the same page.
Help your loved one prepare documents such as:
Advance Care Directives
Enduring Power of Attorney
Wills and Estate Plans
Being proactive not only gives the person you care for autonomy but also provides you with clarity and confidence during difficult times.
Simplify Caregiving with Tunstall Healthcare
Simplify Caregiving with Tunstall Healthcare
Caregiving is one of the most generous acts a person can undertake—but it should never come at the cost of your health or happiness. With the right tools, support networks, and self-care strategies, carers can maintain their wellbeing while providing compassionate, sustainable care.
At Tunstall Healthcare, we’re committed to supporting caregivers through Connected Care technology solutions. Our products, like personal alarms and fall detectors, simplify caregivers’ work, empowering them to find enough time for rest and improve monitoring for their loved ones.
Contact the Tunstall team today to learn how we can support you and your loved ones on your care journey.
Further Reading: Caring for the Carers – How Can We Take Better Care of Care Workers?
