Relax and unwind with our Carer Support Services in Melbourne

Around 2.65 million Australians provide care and support to a family member or friend with a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness or who are frail aged. Our Carer Support Groups highlight the importance of carers looking after their wellbeing, as many are at risk of social isolation and loneliness.

Our Carer Support Groups are for people caring for older people and people with disabilities. These groups provide emergency respite care, information, services and support in a relaxed, friendly environment. They also allow carers to get together with other people who truly understand the mix of emotions and challenges of being a carer.

Servicing the Eastern and North Eastern regions of Melbourne and facilitated by a health professional, these peer support groups offer carers the opportunity to:

  • Learn new information and hear from speakers to support you in your carer role.

  • Meet other carers, listen to and share experiences, as you feel comfortable.

  • Learn from others (including young carers and unpaid carers) in a supportive environment.

  • Experience and develop skills in relaxation and mindfulness.

  • Provide respite, information, and support for family carers in a relaxed, friendly environment.


If you are interested in joining our Carers Group or are looking for respite services in Melbourne, please call our carer support team at (03) 9430 9100.

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Our Carer Support Services and Groups

At healthAbility, we believe carers need support to provide the best care possible for their loved ones. With this in mind, we provide a wide range of Carer Support Groups and Social Support Groups for those caring for senior Australians or those living with a disability or chronic medical condition.

  • Dementia Program—This program offers a stimulating environment to encourage social interactions for people with dementia and flexible respite options for carers.

  • Out and About Young Onset Dementia—This group involves small outings in the community, sometimes including music, bowling, and tourist attractions around Melbourne. It also provides respite for carers.

  • Social Support Group—This group encourages older people to enjoy each other’s company and socialise. It also offers respite for carers.

  • The Welcome Cafe (Younger Onset Dementia) — This group is for people with younger-onset dementia and their family, partners, friends, and carers. Everyone can chat and share experiences in a safe, supportive environment.

If you want to join one of our Carer Support Groups, please call (03) 9430 9100.

Two senior ladies sitting in a garden courtyard sharing a cup of tea together

Benefits of attending our Carer Support Groups

While carers often do a fabulous job of caring for their friends or loved ones, they often neglect the importance of caring for themselves. 

Benefits of joining our Carer Support Groups:

  • Feeling connected—Many carers express feelings of isolation and loneliness. Our Carer Support Groups are designed to address these feelings and provide a place to connect and talk to people in similar situations.  

  • Feeling heard—Our Carer Support Groups provide a safe space for carers to share thoughts and experiences without fearing judgement. You can confidently express yourself, knowing those around you intimately understand your experience.

  • Avoiding burnout—They say you can’t pour from an empty cup, so it’s important to avoid burnout and commit to regular self-care. Our Carer Support Groups provide a place to unwind and take a break.

  • Gaining perspective—Socialising with other caregivers can give you a powerful realisation: you are not alone. Knowing this, you can maintain a more positive outlook and reduce the risk of burnout.

  • Gaining knowledge—Support Groups can be a valuable source of practical information for both new caregivers and those who have been caregivers for a long time. You can share tips and advice on dealing with various situations and recommend other locally based services.

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North East Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect

Free support for family and carers of people with mental health or substance use concerns

The North East Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect service is a warm and welcoming space for families, carers, and supporters of people living with mental health or substance use concerns.

It is a space for families to drop in and connect with our Family Peer Workers who have their own lived experience of caring for a family member with mental health or substance use concerns.

To ensure accessibility, our services are provided in various ways: in-person at the hub and satellite sites, online services, phone-based support, and via telehealth.

You can drop in or call us to book an appointment. We also have resources and information available via our website: https://thefirststop.org.au/

We support carers with:

  • Individual and group-based peer support.

  • Family counselling

  • Information, resources and practical support.

  • Education sessions and group programs

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