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The economic value of informal mental health caring in Australia:

Summary report

Published Date: 1.3.2017

View Publication

Theme: Carer health and wellbeing

Sub-theme: Mental health

Mental health carers Economic value Summary report

Verification Statement

This publication / resource is hosted on a publicly available external link. If the full text is not publicly accessible, summary points are included and a contact method for the author(s) is provided, where available.

The summary information presented is based on content submitted by an author or other user
, along with publicly available information about the publication / resource added by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team.

All content is reviewed, edited and approved by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team, in line with our Submission Guidelines.


To report an issue or request a change, please complete our Feedback Form.

 

Theme: Carer health and wellbeing

Sub-theme: Mental health

View Publication Mental health carers Economic value Summary report

Verification Statement

This publication / resource is hosted on a publicly available external link. If the full text is not publicly accessible, summary points are included and a contact method for the author(s) is provided, where available.

The summary information presented is based on content submitted by an author or other user
, along with publicly available information about the publication / resource added by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team.

All content is reviewed, edited and approved by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team, in line with our Submission Guidelines.


To report an issue or request a change, please complete our Feedback Form.

 

The economic value of informal mental health caring in Australia:

Summary report

Published Date: 1.3.2017

  • Author/ Authors

    Sandra Diminic, Emily Hielscher, Yong Yi Lee, Meredith Harris, Jaclyn Schess, Jan Kealton, Harvey Whiteford

  • Suggested citation (APA 7th edition)

    Diminic S, Hielscher E, Lee YY, Harris M, Schess J, Kealton J & Whiteford H. (2016). The economic value of informal mental health caring in Australia: summary report. Brisbane: The University of Queensland; 2016.

Long Summary

The report, commissioned by Mind Australia and authored by the University of Queensland, estimates the economic value of informal mental health caring in Australia. It highlights that unpaid carers provide substantial support, saving billions annually by reducing reliance on formal health services. The study profiles carers’ demographics, challenges, and contributions, emphasising their critical role in mental health systems. Findings call for greater recognition, financial support, and policy measures to address carers’ wellbeing and sustain their essential contribution to mental health care.

    Key Messages for Carers


  • Carers play a vital role in supporting individuals with mental health challenges, contributing significantly to their recovery and quality of life. These efforts reduce pressure on health systems and create meaningful impact, even if often undervalued. It’s important to seek available supports such as respite services, financial assistance, and peer networks to protect carer wellbeing. Advocating for recognition and accessing resources can help sustain the caring role while maintaining balance and resilience in personal life.

  • Key Messages for Policy Makers


  • Informal mental health carers provide essential, unpaid support that saves billions annually by reducing demand on formal health services. Despite their contribution, carers face financial strain, emotional stress and limited access to resources. Policy makers should prioritise recognition of carers’ economic and social value, expand financial assistance and improve access to mental health services for both carers and those they support. Investing in carer wellbeing ensures sustainability of informal care and strengthens the overall mental health system.

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By the same Author

  • The economic value of informal mental health caring in Australia

    Sandra Diminic , Emily Hielscher , Yong Yi Lee , Meredith Harris , Jaclyn Schess , Jan Kealton , Harvey Whiteford

    View

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The Carer Knowledge Exchange is led by Carers NSW and proudly funded by the NSW Government. It was established as a partnership between Carers NSW and the Institute for Public Policy and Governance (IPPG) at the University of Technology Sydney from 2021-2024. We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.