27/08/2025
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government-funded support service providing free, local services to unpaid carers of people with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or who are frail due to age. It offers a range of supports including counselling, coaching, peer support, skills courses, and tailored support packages to help carers manage their role, reduce strain, and improve their wellbeing.
Wellways is the organisation providing Carer Gateway services in Queensland. Their practical and emotional support services are free to all carers, whether formally recognised or not. They recognise that caring is not defined by paperwork, but rather by the love, commitment, and time you give to someone who needs you.
Indeed, of the many findings from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Su***de, one area stood out that has been known by military families for decades – the volume of support provided by parents, friends and other family members (who aren’t a partner or children) to current and ex-serving Defence members. Yet, they are excluded by legislation from receiving support from Defence and Department of Veteran Affairs.
As a result, Wellways has taken the initiative to support those parents and other carers who fall outside the current system of support from Defence and DVA. To achieve this, they have partnered with myself to deliver two programs: Mental Health First Aid and a two-day Immersion program.
This September and October will see a local launch and then delivery of both these powerful programs in Brisbane, Toowoomba and Hervey Bay, as well as online.
Standard Mental Health First Aid
A two-day, evidence-based course that equips you to recognise the signs of common mental health problems, respond in a crisis, and guide someone towards professional help. It’s just like physical first aid, but for the mind. You’ll walk away with practical, ready-to-use skills and a nationally recognised MHFA certificate.
2-Day Immersion for Carers & Parents of Defence Members
When they serve, you serve too, but in your own way. This immersive program creates space for carers and parents of current and ex-serving Defence members to strengthen their own mental fitness, so they can keep showing up without burning out. Attendees will learn about the Defence systems that apply to the person they care for plus build resilience, create intentional boundaries, and learn practical tools to stay steady when life feels uncertain.
These programs are more than courses, they’re lifelines of knowledge, connection, and empowerment. If you care for a current or ex-serving Defence member, you belong here.
You can find out more information here https://www.kevinhumphreys.com.au/wellways-carers-and-parents-of-defence
We are honoured to share our skills and experience with the carers and parents of defence members through the Carer Gateway program, and to give back to this remarkable community.
Please contact me directly on 0448 470 520 with any questions.
