Loneliness is the feeling of being alone or cut off from other people, even when others are around. It is something many people go through at different times in life. Feeling less lonely is not about staying busy or being around lots of people. It is about feeling connected, included and cared about. 

Why connection matters 

Feeling connected to other people can help your mental, emotional and physical health. It can: 

• lift your mood and confidence 
• lower stress and worry 
• help you cope during hard times 
• support your overall health and wellbeing 

Big life changes can make people feel more alone. This can happen after a move, a health problem, a job change, or leaving service. Noticing it early can make it easier to do something about it. 

Signs you may be feeling lonely 

Loneliness can feel different for each person. You may notice: 

• feeling cut off from other people or left out 
• not wanting to contact other people 
• spending a lot of time alone without much contact 
• feeling low, flat or easily annoyed 
• feeling like no one really understands you 

Noticing these signs is not a weakness. It may be a sign that you need more connection and support. 

Ways to build and keep connection 

Connection does not have to be big or complicated. Small, regular moments with other people can make a difference. 

Everyday things you can do 

• Check in with one trusted person on a regular basis. 
• Plan simple routine contact, like a weekly coffee, phone call or message. 
• Say yes to easy social chances when you feel able. 
• Stay in touch through shared interests or activities, not just talking. 

Community and belonging 

• Join a local group, club or activity that matches your interests. 
• Volunteer or share your skills if that feels right for you. 
• Talk to people who understand what you have been through, if that support is available. 
• If there is a Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in your local area, see what activities might be upcoming.  

Digital connection 

Online groups and messages can help some people feel connected, especially when seeing people in person is hard. For many people, online contact works best when it adds to real-life connection, rather than replacing it. 

If connection feels hard 

For some people, past experiences or long periods of doing things on their own can make connection feel hard, uncomfortable or unsafe. Building trust can take time. 

Start small: 

• one person 
• one activity 
• one small step 

You do not have to share everything or be social all the time. Connection should feel safe, respectful and right for you. 

When loneliness does not go away 

Feeling lonely for a long time can affect your mental health and wellbeing. If these feelings are lasting a long time or feel overwhelming, help is available. 

You could try: 

• talking to a GP or other health professional 
• getting counselling or peer support 
• using trusted wellbeing support and information 

Reaching out is a positive step. You do not have to deal with loneliness on your own. 

A gentle reminder 

You matter. Connection can look different for different people. Even small moments of contact, understanding or shared purpose can help. 

There is no one right way to go back to work after service. You may be: 

• looking for your first civilian job 
• changing careers 
• building new skills  
• easing back into work over time 

Veterans often have strong skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving and adapting to change. A common challenge is explaining these skills in a way civilian employers understand. You can Identify your skills and help translate your ADF experience into civilian language. 

Military Skill recognition

The ADF Transition and Civilain recognition project facilitates ADF members having their military skills recognised through a national qualification as part of their transition to the civilian workforce.

ADF Transition and Civil Recognition provides transitioning members, and those who have transitioned within 24 months, the opportunity to have skills recognised through recognition of prior learning (RPL), and accredited where possible. 

Programs and services that can help 

Veteran Employment Program 

The Veteran Employment Program (VEP) has resources to support veterans and partners to secure employment and progress in their careers, understand the civilian workplace, identify and build skills and find a job. 

Through the Veteran Employment Commitment veterans and partners can identify employers that have policies and practices in place to support their employment, search for these employers by filtering by location and industry on the VEP website. 

VetPaths  

The VetPaths program aims to highlight Australian Public Service (APS) employment opportunities to veterans and provides a structured support system, including resources, mentoring and development opportunities, once employed.  

Future Women Jobs Academy 

The Future Women Jobs Academy program provides support for women and gender diverse people who have served in the ADF as well as partners of veterans, to build confidence and shaping civilian careers. 

Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP)  

The Defence Force Transition Program offers advice, support and programs to assist with finding civilian employment. Services are available for up to 24 months through your local Transition Centre. The DFTP includes career transition coaching and career focussed modules that cover interview and negotiation skills, resume and job search and connecting participants to jobs

Support for Employment Program 

The Support for Employment Program is for veterans who are between 12 months and five years post‑separation. If eligible, you can apply for this program through MyService by clicking the Services and Benefits tile.  

Self-employment support 

Programs such as King’s Trust Australia’s Enterprise Program and Workforce Australia Self-Employment Assistance can support for veterans who are exploring self-employment or business pathways. 

Support for partners 

Work changes can affect the whole family. Partners may also need help to: 

• find work 
• change jobs  
• rebuild confidence after transition or relocation 

You can: 

• explore the Veteran Employment Program resources for partners for practical employment advice 
• use the existing partner-friendly employer search link to find organisations that support veteran and partner employment 
• access the Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) to help with employment costs (up to $1,500 per financial year for eligible ADF member’s partners in Australia)

Thinking about money 

Changes to work or income can affect your financial situation.  It can help to review your finances early and understand what support is available. 

You can: 

• Explore the budgeting skills and tools and the financial advice page on this website  
• Watch the Services Australia Financial Information Service webinars, including the webinar for veterans and families. 
• Explore DVA’s Sort your finances resources. 
• Use the finance section of the ADF Transition Guide app. 

If things feel overwhelming 

Stress about work can affect your mental health, confidence and sense of stability. Support is available.  

• Open Arms provides free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support for veterans and families.  
• Lifeline and Beyond Blue are also available for immediate emotional support. 

Meaningful activity can play an important role in wellbeing during transition.  

Purpose and connection do not have to come from paid work or formal study. For many veterans and families, volunteering, sport, peer support, community activities and creative interests can help build routine, confidence and belonging. 

Meaningful activity, sport and volunteering 

Meaningful activity looks different for everyone. It might be:  

• mentoring others 
• joining a local sporting club 
• volunteering in your community 
• reconnecting with hobbies 
• exploring creative activities such as art programs 
• supporting a cause that matters to you 

These activities can create structure and social connection. They can be especially helpful when work or identity feels uncertain. For example: 

• Mentoring can be a good way to share your experience and support others. The Defence Force Transition Program includes a Becoming a Mentor module to help veterans build these skills. 
• Sport, movement and recreation can support wellbeing. See the Body movement page for ideas to stay active in ways that suit your health, energy and interests. 
• For children, the Sport for kids page has practical tips to help children stay active, connected and settled during change. 
• Volunteering can help you stay connected, use your skills and support a cause that matters to you. Volunteering Australia can help you explore volunteer roles and find opportunities that suit your interests and availability. 

Connection through shared experience 

For some people, meaningful activity also includes connecting with others who understand military and family life. This might include university-based groups such as the Australian Student Veteran Association, which connects veterans studying at university with others who share ADF experience. 

Peer support can reduce isolation, build confidence and help people feel understood. Open Arms Community and Peer Program offers peer support, community engagement and group programs for veterans and families. 

Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs may also offer local activities and groups. They can help you connect with services, community and other veterans and families. See the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs page to learn more. 

Taking small steps toward purpose 

You do not need to have a complete plan to start building meaningful activity into your life. 

Small steps can make a real difference. You could try a new activity, attend a community event, join a group, or make time for something you enjoy. Over time, these experiences can help build routine, confidence and connection. 

Further support and resources 

If you would like more ideas or support, these Australian resources may help you explore activities, connect with others and find local services. 

National and government-backed resources 

• Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs – DVA-funded hubs across Australia that can connect you with local wellbeing support, social connection, advocacy, health and other services. 
• Open Arms Community and Peer Program – national peer support and community engagement for veterans and families, including group programs and lived-experience support. 
• Volunteering Australia – practical information about volunteering and links to volunteer opportunities across Australia. 
• Healthdirect– Australian Government health information about building wellbeing, staying connected and doing things you enjoy as part of everyday mental health care. 

Veteran-specific organisations 

• Soldier On – a national veteran organisation that offers activities, social connection, health and wellbeing support, learning and employment pathways for current and ex-serving members and their families. 
• RSL Queensland – offers veteran and family wellbeing centres, social connection activities, peer-led wellbeing programs, and free online learning to support health, routine and connection. 
• Mates4Mates – provides social connection activities, family events, peer support, physical rehabilitation and wellbeing programs for veterans and families affected by service. 

Transition affects the whole family, not just the person leaving the ADF. Partners, children, carers and other loved ones can all be affected. 

Family life can change in many ways during transition. Routines, roles, finances, communication and future plans may all shift. Paying attention to relationships during this time can help your family feel more stable and supported. 

Checklist 

The printable ‘Families in Transition’ checklist can help your family plan next steps, keep track of tasks, and decide what support to follow up during transition.   

Use the checklist in the way that works best for your family. 

• Start with one or two items that feel most important right now. 
• Work through the checklists together if that feels helpful. 
• Come back to the lists as your family’s needs change. 
• Use the page sections below to find more information about each topic. 

How transition can affect families 

Families may notice changes in routines, communication, confidence, mood or energy. Some people feel closer during transition. Others feel pressure, uncertainty or fatigue as everyone adjusts in different ways. These responses are common. 

You may have practical questions during this time, such as: 

• Will my child need to change schools if we move after a parent leaves the ADF? 
• What help might we need at home if someone in our family is separating for medical reasons? 
• Will changes to work hours affect our childcare subsidy? 
• How can we stay connected with friends, local services and community activities if Defence is no longer part of daily life? 

These questions are normal. Talking about them early and making plans together can help your family feel more prepared. 

You may find it helpful to read about changing schools, home care and aged care services, childcare support, and ways to stay connected with community and peer support. 

Parenting through transition 

Children may respond to transition in different ways depending on their age, personality and what else is changing around them. 

A big life change can be confusing for children. It may help to: 

• keep routines where you can 
• let the school know what is happening 
• ask if a Defence School Mentor or similar support person can help for a while 

If your family is moving or settling into a new area, the new community checklist can help you work through practical next steps. 

The sport and activities page for children may also help your child stay active, build confidence and feel part of a community during change. 

Strengthening relationships during change 

Small, honest conversations can help. Talk about what is changing, what feels hard, and what support might help right now. 

Not every conversation needs to solve a problem. Sometimes being heard is a helpful first step. 

You can find relationship and family wellbeing support through Open Arms, chaplaincy services, Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs, and community services in the Self-Service Navigation Catalogue. 

Looking after each other 

Looking after each other can include small practical actions, such as: 

• sharing school drop-off 
• helping with meals 
• updating important services with your new address after a move 

Small actions can make change feel more manageable. 

If caring responsibilities are increasing, the carer burnout support page offers practical guidance on recognising pressure early and finding support. 

Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs can help families connect with local services, support options and community activities. You can learn more about what hubs offer on the Veteran and Family Hubs information page. 

You do not need to wait until relationships are under pressure to seek support. Reaching out early can help families stay connected and manage change with more understanding and care. 

Need support now?  

Support is available if your family needs help during transition. You can contact family wellbeing and counselling services, local community supports, or domestic and family violence services. You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. 

Domestic and family violence support 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, confidential help and information are available. 

Read the domestic and family violence support information page for confidential help, safety information and support options. 

Useful websites 

• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling 
• Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs 
• Defence School Mentor Program  
• Child Care Subsidy  
• My Aged Care  
• Carer Gateway 
• 1800RESPECT 
• Respect.gov.au  

Disability can affect many parts of everyday life. It may be physical, cognitive, sensory or related to mental health. For veterans and families, it may be linked to service, injury, illness or changes later in life. 

Support is available to help you stay independent and connected, in ways that work for you and your family.  

Disability support includes services, programs, equipment and practical help for everyday life. 

What support can help with 

Disability support looks different for everyone. Depending on your needs, it may help with: 

• Personal care, mobility or transport 
• Health needs, equipment or home modifications 
• Managing disability, injury, illness or long-term mental health challenges 
• Building skills, confidence and independence 
• Support for carers, partners, children and family members 
• Work, study and community participation 

Support may be short term or ongoing, and it may change over time. 

Your support options 

There are different ways to get disability support, and it is not always obvious where to begin. 

Your options may depend on: 

• Your type of disability or health condition 
• How it affects your daily life 
• Whether it is related to military service 
• Your age, where you live and your circumstances 

Support may come from health services, community organisations, disability programs, employment services, education services or veterans’ services. 

You should be treated with dignity and respect, supported to make choices, and given information in a way you can use. 

You do not need to have everything worked out before asking for help. 

Support services in Australia 

Support can come from different services, depending on your needs, age and situation. 

Support through DVA 

Some veterans may be able to get support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). This may include rehabilitation, equipment, in-home support and compensation for accepted service-related conditions. 

DVA rehabilitation may include help with health care, wellbeing and work goals, including returning to work. 

DVA support may sit alongside the NDIS, health services, aged care and community support. Some people may be eligible for more than one system, but the same support is usually not funded twice. 

Other support systems 

• The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), if you are eligible 
• Disability Gateway for trusted information and local services 
• My Aged Care if you are aged 65 or over, or from age 50 for some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 
• Health and community services such as GPs, allied health, mental health care, housing and transport 
• Advocacy or support to understand your rights, ask questions or make a complaint 
• Support with work, study, community participation, equipment or home modifications 

Support for carers and family 

If you are a partner, family member, carer or supporter, help may also be available for you. 

• Understanding services and support options 
• Balancing caring responsibilities with your own wellbeing 
• Accessing respite, counselling or peer support 
• Planning for future care and support needs 

Looking after yourself is an important part of supporting someone else. 

How to get support 

If you are looking for disability support, you can start by: 

• Talking to a GP or health professional about your needs 
• Using trusted disability and wellbeing services 
• Getting help to understand your options and next steps 
• Asking services what support may suit you 

Finding the right support can feel complex, especially during stressful times. Help is available, and you do not have to do this alone. 

Where to start 

If you are not sure where to begin, start with the service that best matches your situation. 

If you need general disability support 

• Disability Gateway – a good starting point for disability information, services and local support 
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – information about disability support if you may be eligible 
• My Aged Care – aged care services and support for older people 

If you are a veteran or family member 

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – rehabilitation, compensation and other veteran support 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – provides free and confidential mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and the families of veterans

If you are a carer or need communication support 

• Carer Gateway – counselling, respite and practical support for carers 
• National Relay Service – support for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties 

Key contact numbers 

You can use these contact details to find information or work out your next step. 

• Disability Gateway: 1800 643 787 
• NDIS: 1800 800 110 
• My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA): 1800 838 372 
• Carer Gateway: 1800 422 737 
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling: 1800 011 046 
• National Relay Service: If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties, you can use the National Relay Service to make and receive calls to services. 

Glossary 

These terms may help you understand some of the services mentioned on this page. 

• NDIS: The National Disability Insurance Scheme. It provides support for some people with permanent and significant disability. 
• DVA: The Department of Veterans’ Affairs. It supports eligible veterans and some families. 
• Disability Gateway: A service that helps people find disability information, services and support in Australia. 
• My Aged Care: The main starting point for Australian Government aged care services. 
• Rehabilitation: Support that helps a person improve wellbeing, independence, everyday life or ability to work after injury or illness. 
• Service-related: Linked to military service. 
• Respite: Short-term support that gives carers a break. 
• National Relay Service: A free service that helps people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech or communication difficulties make and receive phone calls. 

As you move from the ADF to civilian life, DVA may help with benefits and supports such as: 

• Registering with MyService 
• Claims for compensation 
• Veterans’ Health Checks 
• Service Pensions 
• Non-Liability Health Care 
• DVA Rehabilitation Services 
• House loans and insurance 

When DVA may be useful 

DVA may be helpful if you want support with health care after service, or if you are looking into compensation or rehabilitation related to your service. 

Some people connect with DVA before leaving the ADF. Others do it later, when support feels more relevant or new needs come up. 

How we can help 

If you are not sure whether DVA is right for you yet, that is okay.  

We can help you understand your options, think about what support might be most useful first, and find the right information. 

This may include helping you work out what feels most important right now, such as health, money, family wellbeing, housing, work or general transition support. 

If you are not sure where to start, connect with a Veteran and Family Support Officer to get some guidance.  

Making shopping simpler 

Ordering groceries online can make everyday life easier – especially when things feel busy, stressful, or unpredictable. 

It can help save time and energy and support you to stay on top of daily needs during periods of transition or change. 

You can order groceries from your phone, tablet or computer, and choose to have groceries delivered to your home or ready for collection. 

Why it can help 

Online grocery shopping can support your wellbeing in practical ways: 

• Less stress and effort - Avoid busy shops, long queues and last-minute decisions 
• More time - Order at a time that suits you, day or night 
• Better budgeting - See your total as you shop and make changes before checking out 
• More control - Take your time choosing items without feeling rushed 

Online shopping can be especially helpful if you are: 

• adjusting to a new routine 
• managing injury, health conditions, disability or mobility challenges 
• balancing work, family or caring responsibilities 

Getting started 

If you are new to online shopping, you can start small: 

• Choose a supermarket or grocery service in your area 
• Create an account using your email address 
• Add items to your online basket 
• Choose delivery or pick-up 
• Select a time that works for you 

Most services allow you to: 

• save favourite items 
• repeat past orders 
• update your order before delivery 

Tips to make it easier 

Start with a short list 

Order a few essential items first to get comfortable with the process 

Plan meals and set a budget 

Planning ahead can help reduce waste, manage costs and make shopping quicker. 

Check delivery options and costs 

Some delivery times are lower cost or more flexible. Compare options before you check out. 

Shop safely online 

• Use trusted websites and secure payment methods 
• Create strong passwords  
• Be cautious of unexpected links, messages or deals that seem too good to be true 

If access feels challenging 

Not everyone has the same access to online services or feels confident using them. 

If this sounds like you, you could: 

• ask a family member, friend or support worker for help 
• look for community delivery services or local stores that offer phone or assisted ordering 
• check if aged care or disability supports can assist with shopping or meal preparation 
• seek local food relief services if cost is a concern 

Getting support 

If accessing food or managing groceries is becoming difficult, support is available. 

This may include: 

• community services that help with food access 
• financial counselling or budgeting support 
• local organisations that provide emergency food relief 
• aged care or disability supports that assist with shopping or meals 

Helpful Australian Government resources 

• eSafety Commissioner – help with staying safe online and protecting your personal information, and avoiding unsafe websites  
• Scamwatch – advice on identifying scams and fake online stores, and what to do if something feels wrong 
• MoneySmart – tools and tips for budgeting, meal planning and managing grocery costs  
• My Aged Care – information about in-home support, including meals and shopping 
• NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) – information about disability supports 
• Services Australia – information about payments, financial help, and support services 

Volunteering is a way to stay connected, contribute your skills and be part of something meaningful. This could be in your local community, alongside other veterans, or with organisations supporting causes you care about. 

For many veterans and families, volunteering can help build routine, purpose and connection after times of change or transition. It is also a flexible way to give back without the pressure of paid work. 

What volunteering can involve 

Volunteering looks different for everyone. It might include: 

• supporting other veterans or families 
• helping in community, sporting or emergency organisations 
• sharing skills, knowledge or lived experience 
• volunteering occasionally or on a regular basis 
• roles that are active, behind the scenes, local or online 

You can usually choose roles that fit your energy, interests and availability. 

Why volunteering can help 

Research shows that volunteering can have real benefits for veterans and families, including stronger social connection, a sense of purpose, and improved wellbeing.  

People often choose volunteering because it: 

• creates a sense of belonging and contribution 
• reduces isolation and loneliness 
• builds confidence and structure during transition 
• offers opportunities to use skills developed in Defence in new ways 
• supports identity and meaning beyond service 

For some veterans, volunteering can also be a gentle step back into work settings without the commitments of employment. 

Volunteering opportunities for veterans and families 

There are many volunteering roles that value veteran experience and understand Defence life. Opportunities may be available through: 

• veteran-led and veteran support organisations 
• emergency and community service organisations 
• sporting, recreation and wellbeing groups 
• aged care, health and community support programs 
• national and local volunteering networks 

You can also explore government-recognised pathways such as the Department of Social Services volunteering site, GoVolunteer as a national entry point, and Volunteering Gateway. If you are an eligible job seeker, some voluntary work may also be approved through Workforce Australia or Services Australia. 

Some roles are specifically designed to support other veterans or families, while others are broader community roles where your skills and experience are valued. 

Choosing the right role 

When thinking about volunteering, it can help to consider: 

• what you enjoy and what gives you energy 
• how much time you want to commit 
• whether you want social, practical or skills-based roles 
• what level of responsibility feels right for you right now 

It’s okay to start small and change roles over time. 

Help to get started 

If you’re interested in volunteering but not sure where to begin, support is available to help you: 

• explore volunteering options that suit your goals 
• connect with trusted organisations and pathways 
• find roles that are flexible, supportive and safe 
• understand how volunteering fits alongside other supports 

You do not need to have everything figured out. Taking the first step can be enough. 

An unexpected illness can affect daily life in many ways. Whether it is short term or long term, it can bring stress, uncertainty and change for you or someone close to you. 

It is normal to need time, support and space to adjust in your own way. 

How unexpected illness can affect your life 

Unexpected illness can affect many areas of wellbeing, including: 

• physical health and energy levels 
• mental and emotional wellbeing 
• work, study or daily routines 
• relationships and roles within families 
• financial security and independence 

Even when recovery is expected, a sudden loss of control or routine can be hard to manage. 

Common emotional responses 

People respond differently to illness. You may experience: 

• shock, fear or anxiety 
• frustration or anger 
• sadness, grief or loss 
• guilt or worry about others 
• relief once a diagnosis is known 

These reactions are understandable. There is no right or wrong way to feel. 

Ways to adjust to unexpected illness 

Adjusting to unexpected illness often happens gradually. Some people find the following ideas helpful. 

Understand what is happening 

• You may find it helpful to ask questions and seek clear information from trusted health professionals. 
• You might like to take notes or bring someone with you to appointments for support. 

Focus on what you can control 

• Break things down into manageable steps. 
• Identify what helps you feel steadier day to day, even in small ways. 

Be flexible with expectations 

• Recovery and adjustment are not always linear. 
• It’s okay to rest, change plans, and ask for help. 

Supporting your wellbeing during illness 

Looking after wellbeing is important during periods of illness. 

Physical support 

• Follow medical advice and attend recommended appointments. 
• Prioritise rest, nutrition and hydration within your capacity. 

Emotional support 

• Talk with someone you trust about how you’re feeling. 
• Use grounding techniques to manage stress or overwhelm. 
• Allow space for difficult emotions without judgement. 

Stay connected 

• Maintain contact with others, even if it looks different than before. 
• Let people know how they can support you. 

When illness affects someone close to you 

Supporting a partner, family member or someone close to you can be exhausting. 

• Acknowledge your own feelings and needs. 
• Accept support where possible. 
• Give yourself permission to take breaks. 

Caring for yourself is an important part of caring for others. 

Practical first steps 

If you are not sure where to start, focus on one or two small steps. 

• Talk to your GP or healthcare team. 
• Ask someone you trust to help with appointments or notes. 
• Focus on one or two things you can manage today. 
• Accept help with meals, transport or daily tasks. 
• Reach out for emotional support if things feel too hard. 

Government support options 

You may be able to get government support depending on your needs, age, health condition and caring responsibilities. 

• Medicare can help with the cost of seeing a GP, specialist, tests and some treatment. 
• Your GP can help you access mental health support, including a mental health treatment plan if you are eligible. 
• Services Australia may offer income or carer support, such as the Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment or Carer Allowance, depending on your situation. 
• The NDIS may help if illness leads to a permanent disability and you meet access requirements. 
• My Aged Care can help older people access support at home, respite care or aged care services. 

If you are not sure what support fits your situation, ask your GP, healthcare team or hospital social worker to help you understand your options. 

Support for carers 

If you are caring for someone with an illness, you may be able to get practical, emotional and financial support. What is available will depend on your situation, the needs of the person you care for, and how much care you provide. 

• Carer Payment may help if you provide constant care to someone with a medical condition, disability or age-related care needs, and you cannot work full time because of your caring role. 
• Carer Allowance is a supplementary payment that may help with the extra costs of providing daily care and support. 
• Some people may be able to receive both Carer Payment and Carer Allowance, depending on their circumstances. 
• Carer Gateway can connect carers with counselling, coaching, peer support, skills courses and respite services. 
• Respite support may help if you need a break, have your own health needs, or need support in an emergency. 
• You may also be able to get concessions, annual supplements or other payments depending on your circumstances. 
• The person you care for may also be eligible for their own support through Services Australia, the NDIS, My Aged Care or other health and community services. 

Support for young carers 

If you are under 25 and help care for a parent, sibling, other family member or friend, you may be a young carer. This can be a lot to carry, especially when you are also trying to manage school, study, friendships or everyday life. 

You do not have to work it out on your own. Carer Gateway can help young carers access information, counselling, peer support and respite. Some young carers may also be able to get support through their school, training provider or other youth services. 

Adults supporting young carers can help by checking in gently, noticing signs of stress, and helping them stay connected to school, friends and other supports. Feeling seen, listened to and supported can make a big difference. 

If you are not sure what support you or the person you care for can access, ask your GP, healthcare team, hospital social worker or Services Australia for guidance. You can also contact Carer Gateway for help understanding what services may be available. 

When extra support may help 

If illness or its effects start to feel too hard to manage, extra support can help. 

Consider reaching out to: 

• your GP or healthcare team 
• counselling or peer support services 
• support services you trust 

Support can be practical, emotional or social — and often a combination of all three. 

Remember 

Unexpected illness can change plans, roles and routines, but it does not change your value. Adjusting takes time, and support is available. 

Support during a complex time 

If you or someone you care about is involved with the justice system, support is available. This page explains some of the challenges you may face, the support that may help, and where to start. 

Being involved with the justice system can be stressful. This may include: 

• court processes 
• custody or detention 
• community-based orders or supervision 

For veterans and families of veterans, this may happen alongside other major life changes, such as leaving Defence, managing health issues, or changes in family life. 

You do not have to manage this on your own. Support can help you understand what is happening and what to do next. 

Why support matters 

Justice system involvement can affect many parts of your life, including: 

• mental and emotional wellbeing 
• housing and stability 
• family relationships 
• employment or education 
• connection to community 

The right support can reduce stress, help you understand your situation, and make it easier to plan your next steps. 

If things feel overwhelming 

It is normal to feel uncertain, stressed or overwhelmed when dealing with the justice system. 

It’s okay to: 

• ask questions 
• take things one step at a time 
• seek support early 

You are not expected to handle everything by yourself. 

What support can look like 

Support will depend on your situation and what matters most to you right now. 

It might include: 

• Understanding the process 
  Information to help you understand what is happening and what to expect 
• Navigating services 
  Help connecting with legal, health, housing or community supports 
• Maintaining wellbeing 
  Access to mental health, counselling or wellbeing services 
• Staying connected 
  Support to maintain relationships with family, children or community 
• Planning for the future 
  Support to prepare for life after court processes or custody 

Supporting families and children 

Justice system involvement can affect partners, children, carers and other family members, not just the person going through the process. 

Children may need support to feel safe, informed and connected during times of change. This can include: 

• reassurance that they are safe and supported 
• clear, age-appropriate explanations about what is happening 
• consistent routines where possible, such as school, meals and bedtime 
• help staying connected to trusted adults, family, culture and community 
• extra support if they are showing signs of stress, worry or behavioural changes 

Families and carers may also need support for their own wellbeing. This may include help with managing stress, maintaining routines, talking with children, navigating services, or getting practical support from community, health or family services. 

Support from states and territories 

State and territory governments may provide support before release, during community supervision, and after a person returns to the community.  

What is available will vary depending on where someone lives, whether they are in custody or on a community-based order, and what services operate locally. 

What support may include 

• pre-release planning and help preparing for release 
• case management or reintegration support 
• help with housing, homelessness and practical needs 
• mental health, alcohol and other drug, and wellbeing support 
• support with education, training, employment and daily living skills 
• links to parole, community corrections and local community services 
• in some places, targeted support for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people with complex needs 

Support by state and territory 

• ACT: Support may include correctional and community programs that help people leaving custody, as well as support for families. 
• New South Wales: Support may include throughcare, housing assistance, family counselling, alcohol and other drug support, and other services that help people settle back into the community. 
• Northern Territory: Available support may include rehabilitation, community corrections, skills development and links to community-based services. 
• Queensland: People may be able to access support before and after release, including help with housing, parole applications, connecting with services, and links to mental health, education and counselling support. 
• South Australia: Support may include release planning, referrals, supervision, and help with accommodation, work readiness, transport and other practical needs. 
• Tasmania: Support may include release and parole processes, along with community services that help with practical needs and family support after release. 
• Victoria: Transition planning may begin in custody and continue after release, with support that can include housing, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, family connection, and employment. 
• Western Australia: Some services may support people to reconnect with family and community, alongside help with housing, education and employment. 

Services, eligibility rules and program availability can change over time. It can help to check current information with corrective services or a local support organisation in your state or territory. 

If you are preparing for release or supporting someone through this transition, ask corrective services, a case worker, parole officer or community organisation what support is available in your area. 

Getting support 

These steps can help you get started. 

• Start by identifying what you need help with most right now, such as legal advice, emotional support, housing, money, or support for your family. 
• Contact one trusted service or professional first, even if you are not sure where to begin. 
• Write down your questions and any important dates, letters or documents before appointments or calls. 
• If your needs are urgent, seek help as early as possible rather than waiting for things to get worse. 

Types of support 

• Legal and advocacy services 
  For help understanding your rights, court processes, legal options or available supports. 
• Health and mental wellbeing providers 
  For support with stress, anxiety, trauma, alcohol and other drugs, or other health concerns. 
• Housing, financial or community organisations 
  For help with stable housing, money pressures, daily needs, or practical support during a difficult time. 
• Transition and reintegration services 
  For support with planning ahead, reconnecting with community, and preparing for life after court processes or custody. 

Veteran community specific support 

• DVA support and information 
  For help understanding available supports, health care, rehabilitation, financial assistance, and services for veterans and families. 
• Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling 
  For free, confidential, military-aware counselling and mental health support for veterans and their families. 
• Veteran advocacy and ex-service organisations 
  For help understanding entitlements, connecting with services, and getting practical support through organisations such as the RSL and other veteran support services. 

You do not need to work everything out on your own. Reaching out early can make it easier to understand your options and get the right support.