Only about four in ten, or 38.9%, of Australia’s unpaid carers report healthy wellbeing levels, compared with 66% of the general adult population. The 2025 Carer Wellbeing Survey reported high psychological distress amongst carers rose to 42.7% in 2025, up from 28% in 2024.
According to the report, 64.3% of carers say their household financial situation has worsened since taking on caring responsibilities, up from 59.1% in 2024. This trend is concerning, as it highlights the significant impact caring responsibilities can have on a person’s financial stability.
71% of carers say they have been unable to accept employment opportunities because of their caring role, up from 55.9% the previous year. This suggests that caring responsibilities can significantly limit a person’s ability to participate in the workforce.
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In addition, many carers report feeling lonely often or always, whilst they say there is a lack of available respite services in their area. The lack of respite services can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation amongst them.
More than 70% of carers say they do not feel recognised by the government. Almost one-third took more than a year to identify themselves as a carer. Even after identification, many report they were not given information about available support.
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing says the National Carer Strategy Action Plan 2024-2027 will prioritise mental health supports, respite access, and peer support to address the decline. This plan aims to provide carers with the support they need to maintain their wellbeing.
Three projects — led by Nous Group and KPMG — are currently reviewing counselling, mental health and respite services, with outcomes expected to inform the 2026 annual report. These projects will help identify areas for improvement and inform the development of more effective support services for carers.
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Caring responsibilities can have a significant impact on a person’s wellbeing, financial stability, and ability to participate in the workforce. By prioritising mental health supports, respite access, and peer support, the government can help address the decline in carer wellbeing and provide carers with the support they need to maintain their wellbeing.
Carers need support to maintain their wellbeing, as they often experience high levels of psychological distress and feel isolated due to their caring role.
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