RESEARCH WEEK EVENT - Balancing work and caring responsibilities: Supporting carers in the workplace

Workplaces often offer resources such as information, policies, portals, and hubs to assist parents who are caring for their children.  However, it is crucial to recognise working carers have distinct needs and experiences from working parents, and often do not have the same levels of support afforded to them as parents do in their workplaces.

Carers represent 11% of all Australians (ABS, 2018) and this sizable group of employees who combine paid work with caring for someone with a disability, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, chronic condition, terminal illness, or someone who is fail and/or aged (see Carers Recognition Act, 2010).

This Research Week event involves a panel discussion with industry and government partners to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities encountered by organisations interested in exploring innovative ways to better support carers in the workplace.

Hearing from Industry about their needs will ensure research is relevant, feasible and impactful.  The event will serve as a catalyst for future supported research endeavours.