Arafmi Ltd

Arafmi Ltd Arafmi advocates for systemic reforms to government and service providers. Mental Health Service

Arafmi provides free support for mental health carers in Queensland, including a 24-hour Carer Support Line, individual and group support, workshops and respite accommodation.

What if the way you communicate could change everything? Sometimes it’s not about how much you care… it’s about not know...
24/04/2026

What if the way you communicate could change everything? Sometimes it’s not about how much you care… it’s about not knowing what to say next.

Those quiet moments.
The missed connections.
Wanting to help, but feeling like it’s not landing.

This free 2-hour workshop is designed for mental health carers who want practical, real-life ways to communicate with less conflict and more connection.

You’ll learn the L.E.A.P. method (Listen, Empathise, Agree, Partner), a simple but powerful approach to help you connect, even in tough moments.

No judgement. No pressure. Just tools that can make things feel a little easier.

Join us next week:
💻 Online
📅 Tuesday 28 April | 10:00am
https://buff.ly/1ZitqAq

📍 In person
📅 Thursday 30 April | 10:00am
https://buff.ly/gKaC7cO

Free to attend. Registrations essential.

“I didn’t even realise I was a carer… I was just holding everything together.” We hear this all the time.Behind so many ...
23/04/2026

“I didn’t even realise I was a carer… I was just holding everything together.” We hear this all the time.

Behind so many stories is someone quietly showing up, navigating services, supporting someone through mental health challenges, often without support, connection to services or a moment to breathe for themselves.

That’s where this role comes in.

We’re looking for a Carer Support Facilitator to walk alongside carers in those moments. To listen, guide, connect, and help make things feel a little less overwhelming.

This isn’t just coordination or case management.

It’s human work. Relationship-led. Trust-based.

You’ll be supporting carers one-on-one, facilitating groups, and helping people access the support they didn’t know was available to them.

📍 West End, Brisbane (hybrid)
🕒 Contract to June 2027

If you’re someone who can hold space, build genuine connection and support people through complexity, this is a role where your work will truly matter.

Find out more about the role here:https://buff.ly/sleWJW6

If you’re a mental health carer supporting someone on the NDIS and feeling uncertain after the Federal Government’s prop...
23/04/2026

If you’re a mental health carer supporting someone on the NDIS and feeling uncertain after the Federal Government’s proposed reforms announced yesterday, you’re not alone.

From what’s been shared so far, support is described as being based on what someone needs help with day to day, not just a diagnosis.

We understand this is big news, and we’re here to provide clear, reliable updates as more information becomes available.

In our May newsletter, out next week, we’ll share the facts as we know them and what they may mean for mental health carers and the people you support.

Subscribe to our newsletter here: https://buff.ly/LfHVsJi

In the meantime, if you need to talk, we’re here.
Call our 24 hour Carer Support Line, 1300 554 660

If you’ve been feeling stretched, tired, or like you haven’t had a moment to yourself in a while… this is your invitatio...
22/04/2026

If you’ve been feeling stretched, tired, or like you haven’t had a moment to yourself in a while… this is your invitation to pause.

This small, fully catered day retreat (just 10 left) is designed for mental health carers who need space to reset, reflect and be supported.

You’ll be gently guided through:
• Nature immersion
• Calming watercolour
• Gentle movement and mindfulness
• Time to rest or connect with others who understand

No pressure to share. No expectations to “do it all.” Just space to breathe.

Day Retreat for Carers
📅 12 May 2026
⏰ 9:00am – 4:00pm
📍 Glasshouse Mountains
✅ Free
🚌 Transport available, including train station pick-up

Spots are limited and they will fill fast. If something in you is saying “I need this,” trust that.

To express your interest, contact the Carer Support team:
📞 1300 554 660
📧 carersupport@arafmi.com.au

Do you help a family member or friend experiencing mental distress? You should know, there’s support for you too.Our Men...
20/04/2026

Do you help a family member or friend experiencing mental distress? You should know, there’s support for you too.

Our Mental Health Carer Support Groups welcome unpaid carers and supporters who provide emotional or practical care to a family member, friend, partner or kin.

Join a supportive and respectful space to:
• Share experiences
• Explore different ways of coping
• Connect with others in similar roles
• Or simply listen and observe

There’s no pressure to speak, being present is enough.

🕐 10am - 12pm
📅 24 April (Fourth Friday each month)
📍 Ipswich

To register or find out more:
📧 carersupport@arafmi.com.au
📞 1300 554 660
📋 Register: https://buff.ly/cQitx3t

The Community Leaders Connect Forum was an insightful evening that brought together community leaders, hosted by IWA Aus...
17/04/2026

The Community Leaders Connect Forum was an insightful evening that brought together community leaders, hosted by IWA Australia Ltd.

With a focus on “Stronger Together – Building a Connected and Inclusive Community,” the conversation explored what social cohesion looks like in practice. From cultural safety and representation, to the importance of community-led solutions and trust built over time, there was a shared understanding that connection doesn’t happen by chance.

It’s something we actively create, together.
It’s built through listening, respect and ongoing collaboration.

There was a strong sense of shared commitment in the room, recognising both the challenges and the opportunities in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and included.

These conversations matter.
They strengthen relationships, deepen understanding and help shape more connected communities.

Pictured: The inspiring panel, including Dr Inez Fainga'a-Manusione, Uncle Terry Stedman, the Logan City Council Mayor Jon Raven, Ali K. (Islamic College Of Brisbane), Ari Heber (President, QLD Jewish Community Services), and Dr John Bosco Ngendakurio (ECCQ - Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland), Mary, Julian Hill MP (Assistant Minister for International Education and Member for Bruce in the Australian Parliament), Sasha (Engagement and Advocacy Officer (Carer Lived Experience) Arafmi Ltd), Aynur (Carer Support CALD Senior Coordinator Arafmi)

Special thanks: hosted by IWA Australia in partnership with Logan City Council, SSI - Settlement Services International and MultiLink Community Services Inc.

Many don’t call themselves a carer. They’re just… showing up. Checking in. Holding things together.Helping through the h...
16/04/2026

Many don’t call themselves a carer. They’re just… showing up. Checking in.

Holding things together.

Helping through the hard days.

It's what you do for friends, for family, for those who need extra practical and emotional support... right?

If that sounds familiar, you might be a mental health carer.

And while you’re supporting someone else, we want you to know there is support for you too.

Our Carer Support Team is here to listen, provide support, new resources and share helpful skills.

Whether you’re looking for carer support services, want to refer a carer, book a guest speaker or become a volunteer, we’re here to help.

24-hour Carer Support Line
📞 1300 554 660
📧 carersupport@arafmi.com.au

Are you currently supporting someone through a difficult time and in need of a break yourself? Did you know there’s FREE...
15/04/2026

Are you currently supporting someone through a difficult time and in need of a break yourself?
Did you know there’s FREE support for you too?

Arafmi has been supporting mental health carers in Queensland for nearly 50 years. Now we have a local presence, Carol, who is connecting with community in Townsville and the surrounding regions. Based in Townsville!

In a region where distance, limited services and constant change are part of everyday life, Carol is there to make sure carers feel supported, understood and less alone.

📍 You can find Carol for coffee this Thursday

☕ Join her at Coffee Connect in Townsville on April 17 by registering here:
https://buff.ly/zFKYVbF](https://buff.ly/zFKYVbF

If you’re supporting someone experiencing mental health challenges, in or around Townsville, you don’t have to do this alone.

Sometimes, a coffee and a chat can go a long way ☕💚 Arafmi Coffee Connect in Townsville is a relaxed space to drop in and connect with others who understand the caring role. Carol, our local Carer Support Facilitator, will be there to welcome you. She has been a carer herself for most of her life and understands the role deeply.

No pressure, no expectations, just good conversation and support. All mental health carers supporting family, kin or friends are welcome.

📅 Friday 17 April
⏰ From 10am
📍 Townsville

Find out more or register here:
https://buff.ly/8xx5A1c

👇
We’re Arafmi, a Queensland organisation supporting family members and friends who care for someone experiencing mental health challenges. We offer free support, groups, and activities to help carers feel seen, connected and supported.

Arafmi is proudly delivering for and in partnership with Carer Gateway, across rural and regional Queensland.

“Keep doing what you’re doing, it helps us to help our loved ones” We’re not crying, you are 💚 🥹This is exactly why Yout...
15/04/2026

“Keep doing what you’re doing, it helps us to help our loved ones”
We’re not crying, you are 💚 🥹

This is exactly why Youth eCPR exists. To give young carers real tools, real confidence and a space where they don’t have to have it all together.

Because let’s be real…
Supporting someone through tough mental health moments is a lot.

This Youth Week, we’re celebrating the young people who are quietly doing the most.
The check-ins. The late-night chats. The “are you okay?” texts.

You’re showing up in ways that matter. And you deserve support that shows up for you too.

We run Youth eCPR quarterly for young carers aged 18–25 across Queensland, along with many free workshops to help carers on their journey.

Keen to join the next one? Keep an eye out or reach out 💌 Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://buff.ly/2yqz5DT

Sometimes, a coffee and a chat can go a long way ☕💚 Arafmi Coffee Connect in Townsville is a relaxed space to drop in an...
14/04/2026

Sometimes, a coffee and a chat can go a long way ☕💚 Arafmi Coffee Connect in Townsville is a relaxed space to drop in and connect with others who understand the caring role. Carol, our local Carer Support Facilitator, will be there to welcome you. She has been a carer herself for most of her life and understands the role deeply.

No pressure, no expectations, just good conversation and support. All mental health carers supporting family, kin or friends are welcome.

📅 Friday 17 April
⏰ From 10am
📍 Townsville

Find out more or register here:
https://buff.ly/8xx5A1c

👇
We’re Arafmi, a Queensland organisation supporting family members and friends who care for someone experiencing mental health challenges. We offer free support, groups, and activities to help carers feel seen, connected and supported.

Arafmi is proudly delivering for and in partnership with Carer Gateway, across rural and regional Queensland.

Sharing an opportunity from Roses in the Ocean. This program is open to people across Queensland who want to strengthen ...
14/04/2026

Sharing an opportunity from Roses in the Ocean. This program is open to people across Queensland who want to strengthen their role in su***de prevention, whether you’re an individual or part of an organisation.

For peer workers (or those curious about peer work), it’s a chance to build your skills, grow your knowledge and deepen your impact.

For organisations, it’s about learning how to meaningfully include lived experience in the way services are designed, delivered and led.

There are a range of workshops and training sessions available, designed to meet you where you’re at and support the role you want to play in su***de prevention.

Find out more or get involved here: (https://rosesintheocean.com.au/lived-experience-at-work/)

Peer work with the lens of a lived experience of su***de and workplaces who integrate the voice of lived experience into their day-to-day are a vital part of a workforce that efficiently and appropriately supports people with a lived experience of su***de. The Queensland Mental Health Commission are...

Not all carers are adults. Some are still in school. Across Australia, over 391,000 young people are caring for someone,...
13/04/2026

Not all carers are adults. Some are still in school. Across Australia, over 391,000 young people are caring for someone, many without realising there’s a name for what they do.

You might notice it as:
• a young person taking on extra responsibilities at home
• checking in constantly on a parent, sibling or friend
• missing out on typical young person experiences
• carrying more than others their age

This Youth Week, we’re encouraging adults, families, teachers and communities to look a little closer. There may be a young carer in your life who hasn’t been recognised yet. That recognition can be the first step to tailored support, shared understanding and connection to others who truly understand.

If you’re supporting a young person, or know someone who might benefit, there are events happening across Queensland this week that offer safe, welcoming spaces to connect and take a break.

Explore what’s on here: https://buff.ly/GqYzJjd

We’re proud to be a part of the Queensland Young Carers Network alongside Carers Queensland, Carer Gateway, Kids Helpline Official, Mind Blank Ltd, Eating Disorders Queensland, Little Dreamers Australia, Copmi and Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation to ensure young carers are seen, supported and advocated for.

Address

6 Ambleside Street, West End
Brisbane, QLD
4101

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Our Story

In 1976, a young social worker on his final placement at the Stones Corner Community Mental Health Service, (then the only such service in Queensland) recognised a need among the families of his clients for a ‘relatives’ discussion group’. Such a group would enable families to meet and share their experiences as carers of family members with a serious mental illness. The group initially commenced with five people who discovered, many for the first time, that they were not alone. They began the fragile process of hearing each other’s stories and working through the pain together, with both tears and laughter.

From these beginnings Arafmi built a model which mutually supports people in one of the most primary roles of humanity – caring for people more vulnerable than ourselves and the ones we love. Arafmi built a model of service which both created and shared knowledge about how to understand who we are, the roles we fulfil and how to take action in the world. From these humble beginnings, Arafmi took action in the world!