NSW commits $1.6m to support unpaid carers

The NSW government will invest $1.6 million through the latest round of its Carers Investment Grant Program, aimed at strengthening support for the state’s almost one million unpaid carers.

Under the 2026-27 funding round, not-for-profit organisations and eligible local councils can apply for grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 to deliver projects that improve support, recognition and engagement for carers across New South Wales.

The investment is expected to fund between 16 and 32 projects, a significant increase on the seven projects supported in the previous round.

Minister with responsibility for carers Jodie Harrison said unpaid carers often prioritise the needs of others above their own.

“Unpaid carers devote countless hours to supporting their loved ones, often putting their own wellbeing and needs second,” she said.

“The Carers Investment Grant Program is designed to connect carers to the support they need to engage with and be recognised as carers in their own right.”

Successful projects will focus on three key areas:

• increasing recognition and empowerment of carers,
• improving access to services that support carers’ health, wellbeing and economic needs,
• strengthening awareness of carers’ rights and available support pathways.

The latest round has also broadened its focus, encouraging applications for projects that support specific cohorts including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers, young carers, older carers, culturally and linguistically diverse carers, LGBTQIA+ carers, and carers living in rural and regional communities.

Projects can include education programs, awareness campaigns, resources for carers, and initiatives that help frontline professionals better identify and support carers.

“We know this program has a solid track record of equipping frontline workers like mental health specialists and government services staff with resources and knowledge to better support carers whether it be through referrals, recognition or support,” Ms Harrison said.

Applications close on 20 November 2026, with successful projects commencing from 1 March 2027 and running through to June 2028.

For more information, visit the NSW Government website here.