The Unseen Workforce: Recognising and Supporting Unpaid Carers in Australia and Beyond
- Amanda Lee
- May 5
- 3 min read
Updated: May 27
In Australia, over 3 million individuals—approximately 11.9% of the population—serve as unpaid carers, providing essential support to family members or friends with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or age-related conditions. This marks an increase from 10.8% in 2018, reflecting the growing reliance on informal caregiving as the population ages.
Globally, the scale of unpaid caregiving is immense. In 2023, the International Labour Organization estimated that 748 million people aged 15 or older were not participating in the global labour force due to care responsibilities. Of these, 708 million were women, highlighting the significant gender disparity in unpaid caregiving roles.
Recognising the challenges faced by carers, the Australian Government, in collaboration with Carers Australia, launched the Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative (CIWI) in 2023. This initiative aims to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces for carers by providing resources such as online self-assessment tools, e-learning modules, and guidance for
employers to better accommodate the needs of employees with caregiving responsibilities.
Additionally, the Carers + Employers program offers practical support to organisations striving to become carer-friendly. This includes resources like the "10 Tips for a Carer-Friendly Workplace" and guidance on developing policies that support carers in balancing their work and caregiving duties. Carers + Employers
These initiatives underscore the importance of acknowledging and supporting the vital role of carers in our communities. By creating carer-inclusive workplaces, we not only enhance the well-being of carers but also promote a more compassionate and resilient workforce.
Don Campbell – Caring for a Spouse with Dementia
Don Campbell, nearly 80, has been the sole caregiver for his wife, Marjorie, who suffers from dementia and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite the physical and emotional toll, Don continues to care for her without external assistance.
He shared, "I could never, ever not care for her."
His story underscores the deep commitment many carers have, often at the expense of their own wellbeing. The Guardian
Nyrie – A Long-Term Carer Facing Financial Insecurity
Nyrie has been providing informal, unpaid care to a family member for over 12 years. She expressed concerns about her future, stating,
"No super to afford a decent retirement, no current recognised skills so I can earn a living."
Her experience highlights the long-term financial implications many carers face. UNSW Sites
Christina – Caring for a Son with Severe Mental Health Issues
Christina has been the primary caregiver for her son, who suffers from treatment-resistant paranoid schizophrenia and other mental health challenges. She noted the immense strain, saying,
"The mental health system relies heavily on unpaid carers, with dire consequences for both patients and caregivers when it falls short."
Her story emphasises the critical role carers play in supporting individuals with complex needs. news
Global Initiatives Supporting Unpaid Carers
Bogotá's 'Care Blocks' Initiative
In Bogotá, Colombia, the city has established 23 "care blocks" in underserved neighborhoods. These centers offer services like therapy, legal advice, and workshops to support unpaid carers. The program, initiated by Mayor Claudia López, aims to provide carers with resources and respite, recognizing their invaluable contributions. The Guardian
The Global Alliance for Care, supported by UN Women, is a coalition of over 147 organisations working to recognize and support unpaid carers worldwide. The alliance focuses on integrating care work into public policies and promoting shared responsibility within households and communities. Read here about the Care Economy.
This ground-breaking global multi-stakeholder community was launched during the Generation Equality Forum in 2021 in the context of the Action Coalition on Economic and Justice and Rights. You can download their brochure here: Alianza Global por los Cuidados - Alianza Global por los Cuidados / Global Alliance for Care
Key takeaways:
3 million Australians are unpaid carers, representing 11.9% of the population.
Globally, 748 million individuals are out of the labour force due to care responsibilities, with 708 million being women.
The Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative (CIWI) provides tools and resources to help employers support carers.
The Carers + Employers program offers practical guidance for creating carer-friendly workplaces.
For more information on supporting carers in the workplace, visit:
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