15/10/2025
This week is National Carers Week (12-18 October), an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness about the 3 million Australians who provide unpaid care to someone living with a disability, mental health condition, chronic illness, age-related condition or someone receiving palliative care.
At Alfred Health, our Carer Services team is highlighting our ‘double carers’, staff who balance their professional roles with an unpaid caring role for someone outside of work—such as an elderly parent, child with a disability, or partner with health needs.
These unpaid carers often juggle both worlds quietly, with little recognition or formal support. And it can have a significant impact: fatigue, emotional strain, and less time for self-care.
Sherene, a volunteer at Alfred Health and unpaid carer is part of our Carer Services team, providing insight, empathy and a lived experience focus to the team.
Previously working in IT in New Zealand, Sherene became a full-time carer for her daughter living with autism.
“She was about 2 when I became a full-time carer for her – she's 21 now, so I decided to make some time and give back to a service that has helped me throughout the years,” said Sherene.
“It’s a great opportunity for me as it gives me the flexibility I need to care for my daughter, and also means being back in an office, which I kind of missed.
“Being a full-time carer can be isolating, so it’s nice to be in this role and have a community around me in Caulfield Hospital.”
