Support for LGBTI carers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, asexual + (LGBTIQA+) carers face the same stresses and pressures as other carers. But you may also face added problems of discrimination.

There are also many organisations and resources designed specifically to help LGBTIQA+ carers. It’s important for you to find support to help you and the person you care for.

Access Services and Support

Carer Gateway provides a range of free services and support for carers.

By calling 1800 422 737 Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm and selecting option 1, you can speak with your local Carer Gateway service provider. They will talk you through the registration process and start the planning process. This process helps our staff learn more about you and your caring role so they can match services to your individual needs.

Getting information and support

There are many organisations and services that can help.

• LGBTIQA+ Health Australia – has a list of organisations that provide health services for the LGBTIQA+ community on their members webpage
• QLife – provides free, anonymous, counselling and referral for people wanting to talk about issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships
• Beyondblue has information and support for members of the LGBTI community
• Carers Australia – has branches who provide support and resources for LGBTIQA+ carers:
  • Carers New South Wales
  • Carers Northern Territory
  • Carers Queensland
  • Carers South Australia
  • Carers Tasmania
  • Carers Victoria (PDF)
  • Carers Western Australia
• The Department of Health and Aged Care has put together resources for LGBTIQA+ ageing and aged care
• The Australian Government has developed the Aged Care Diversity Framework to ensure all Australians have access to safe, quality, affordable and flexible aged care.
• DrugRehab has information for LGBTIQA+ people dealing with addiction.
• Dementia Australia has information and resources if you are caring for someone with dementia, including a booklet for LGBTIQA+ carers

LGBTIQA+ carer rights

It’s also important to remember that as the carer you have the same legal rights, both when you receive services and at work. You:

• have the right to be treated with respect and considered as a partner with other care providers
• have the right to privacy and confidentiality
• can’t be discriminated against at work because you are a carer
• can ask for flexible working arrangement because you are a carer
• have the right to take leave to care for family or household members