
As we celebrate National Carers Week, BrainLink takes this opportunity to recognise and thank the incredible carers who support people living with acquired brain injury. Behind every person navigating life after brain injury, there may be a family member, partner, friend or other unpaid carer providing practical assistance, emotional support and encouragement through the challenges of everyday life.
Carers play a vital role in helping people maintain their independence, rebuild confidence and stay connected to their families and communities. Their contribution is immeasurable, yet the demands of caring can often go unseen. The physical, emotional and practical responsibilities can be significant, and carers themselves need support, understanding and opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences.
This year is particularly special for BrainLink as we celebrate 20 years of supporting people living with brain injury, caring for carers and making their contributions visible.
Over two decades, BrainLink has worked alongside individuals and families to help them navigate the complexities of life after brain injury. We recognise that supporting someone with a brain injury can be a long and often unpredictable journey, with changing needs and challenges along the way. Carers are an essential part of that journey, but they should not have to navigate it alone.
Through our carer support initiatives, community programs and opportunities for connection, BrainLink aims to ensure carers feel heard, understood and supported. By sharing knowledge, building connections and recognising the importance of their wellbeing, we can help carers continue providing vital support while also looking after themselves.
Our 20-year milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the many carers who have been part of the BrainLink community and acknowledge the difference they make every day. Their dedication, compassion and resilience deserve to be recognised—not just during National Carers Week, but throughout the year.
To every carer in our community: thank you. Your contribution matters, your experiences deserve to be heard, and your wellbeing matters too.
As BrainLink looks to the future, we remain committed to caring for carers, making their contributions visible and building a community where no one has to face the challenges of brain injury alone.
Carers are people who provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental health condition, chronic condition, terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or who are frail aged. Anyone can become a carer, at any time.
National Carers Week is an opportunity to raise community awareness among all Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles.
When Angela Barker sustained a severe brain injury at just 16, her family faced an uncertain future. With unwavering love and determination, her parents, Helen and Ian, supported her recovery, with BrainLink providing guidance and support along the way. Angela went on to become a respected advocate for people living with disability and survivors of domestic violence, speaking at the United Nations and receiving national recognition for her work. As BrainLink celebrates 20 years, the Barker family’s story highlights the power of family, connection and the right support to create new possibilities after brain injury.

Your donation can help us give carers the respite and quality time with their loved one that they need. No one should face their journey as a carer alone, your support will allow carers to feel connect, heard and understood.
Every experience is unique, and every story has the power to inspire others. We want to learn from you. By sharing your journey, you’re helping, you can help others navigate their path as a carer.
This Carers week, Carers Australia are hosting a range of events across the country. Follow the link below to explore an event near you.
