At the Citizens Advice Bureau, we understand that balancing work and caring for a loved one can be challenging. That’s why we’re committed to supporting our staff who are carers by offering flexible work arrangements and a supportive environment. We want to ensure you can thrive at work while taking care of the people who matter most.
Who is a Carer?
At the CAB, “Carer” is defined according to the Carers Recognition Act 2004 (WA). The full definition has been adopted by the CAB and can be found in our Carer-Friendly Employment Practices policy.
According to this definition, a carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a person living disability, mental health challenges or long term health conditions (including a chronic condition or terminal illness), an alcohol or other drug dependency, or who is frail aged.
Accreditation
The CAB is currently in the process of obtaining accreditation as a Carer-Friendly Workplace under the Carers+Employers Accreditation Program.
Carer-Friendly Employment Practices
We recognize the importance of supporting employees who have caring responsibilities. Our commitment to being a Carer-Friendly employer ensures that staff can balance their work with their responsibilities as a carer.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Carers employed at CAB for over 12 months are entitled to request flexible work arrangements. These may include:
- Adjusting working hours or reducing hours
- Job-sharing or split shifts
- Remote working options
Carers are also entitled to specific leave provisions, as outlined in our employment conditions policy.
We will give all requests fair consideration, and any rejections are based on reasonable business grounds under the Fair Work Act.
Education & Awareness
We are committed to educating our workforce about carer inclusion and support.
Training and awareness programs ensure that carers feel supported and recognized within our organization.
Monitoring & Support
CAB actively identifies and supports carers in the workplace, ensuring they are aware of relevant policies and feel comfortable utilizing available resources. At the CAB, policies relating to carers are developed in consultation with carers.
For more detailed information, refer to our Carer-Friendly Employment Practices policy or get in touch.
Further Assistance for Employees
At CAB, we offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to any employee especially carers seeking support for issues related to their wellbeing. The services provided are completely free and confidential, ensuring our employees feel safe and respected.
Find out more below!
Additional Support
These organisations provide additional assistance for carers which employees at the Citizens Advice Bureau have the opportunity to use.
Carers Gateway is an Australian Government initiative directed towards family carers within Australia. This initiative allows:
- Free counselling
- Financial Support
- Online Carer Support
- Planned & Emergency Respite Care
Carers WA is a not-for-profit organisation and charity, who are devoted to improving the lives of West Australian carers. With this organisation, carers have access to:
- ‘Be Job Ready’ courses
- Carers Support groups
- In-home support
- Carers Retreat Programs
Mental Illness Fellowship of Western Australia (MIFWA)
MIFWA is an independent community organisation with a focus on individuals struggling with or recovering from mental health challenges.
They offer free coffee mornings at Mandurah, Midland, East Fremantle and Madeley. This allows carers take a break from their responsibilities and meet new people.
Also, this organisation offers complimentary online support groups for family carers in need.
The main mission for Avivo is to provide personalised assistance to help individuals within the community to feel appreciated and included. They have funding called, ‘Family Support,’ which provide carers with:
- Flexible respite and family support options
- Alternate/Supplementary care arrangements
This organisation focuses on providing free Mental Health Education, services and carer support for individuals across WA. The services for carer support include:
- Free Counselling for carers and young carers
- Carer Workshops
- School-holiday programs for young carers
- Free counselling for families, couples, carers and individuals
- Peer support programs
- Family carers education programs
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling
This service provides a high quality of mental health assessments and services directed to veterans, their families and carers. They can provide:
- Free and confidential counselling
- Free mental health training
- Community and peer programs
Western Australian Carers Charter
The Carers Recognition Act 2004 establishes the four principles of the Western Australian Carers Charter:
Carers must be treated with respect and dignity.
The role of carers must be recognised by including carers in the assessment, planning, delivery and review of services that impact on them and the role of carers.
The views and needs of carers must be taken into account along with the views, needs and best interests of people receiving care when decisions are made that impact on carers and the role of carers.
Complaints made by carers in relation to services that impact on them and the role of carers must be given due attention and consideration.
