NSW Opens $1.6 Million Carers Investment Grant Program

The NSW Government has opened applications for $1.6 million in funding under the 2026–27 Carers Investment Grant Program, aimed at improving recognition and support for unpaid carers across the state.

Grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 will be available, with the funding expected to support between 16 and 32 projects.

That represents an increase from the previous grant round, which funded seven projects.

Focus on Recognition and Access to Support

Projects funded under the program are expected to focus on three main areas:

• increasing recognition, respect and empowerment of unpaid carers
• improving carers’ access to services and support relating to economic security, health and wellbeing
• improving awareness among service providers and the wider community about carer roles, rights and available referral pathways.

Eligible projects may include education and awareness programs, tools and resources, community activities and initiatives designed to help identify carers and connect them with appropriate support.

Projects to Begin in March 2027

Successful projects are expected to begin from 1 March 2027 and run for 15 months, ending on 30 June 2028.

Applications are open to eligible incorporated not-for-profit organisations, as well as local councils and some other qualifying organisations operating in NSW.

The funding cannot generally be used for existing programs, capital works, permanent salaries or projects duplicating services already provided through Commonwealth programs such as Carer Gateway.

Part of NSW Carers Strategy

The grant program forms part of the NSW Carers Strategy 2020–2030, which focuses on recognition, economic opportunity, health and wellbeing and access to services for unpaid carers.

Nearly one million people in NSW provide unpaid care to a family member or friend, representing close to one in eight residents, according to Carers NSW.

Unpaid carers may support people living with disability, mental illness, chronic or terminal illness, or people who require assistance because of age.

Applications Close 20 November

Applications opened at 9am on 30 October 2026 and will close at 5pm on 20 November 2026.

Proposals will go through a competitive assessment process, with projects assessed against the program’s objectives and value for money.

The Carers Investment Grant Program sits alongside other NSW initiatives including National Carers Week grants, the Companion Card Program and programs supporting social connection for carers and older people.