More than 12 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are carers, looking after those most in need.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are more likely to be carers, and with caring being a core part of cultural life, First Nations women often take on this family and community role.

The Commonwealth's Department of Social Services funds a free nationwide service dedicated to supporting the 2.65 million carers living in Australia, known as Carer Gateway.

For the 12.4% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who identify as carers, Carer Gateway can help by providing practical support, resources, mental health and wellbeing support and learning opportunities.

On Wednesday, 8 March, International Women's Day, Carer Gateway noted that the 2023 IWD theme is "Embrace Equality"; a theme particularly relevant to unpaid carers who work hard, often around the clock, to provide a vital service not only to their loved ones but also the broader community.

Carer Gateway provides support services to unpaid carers from a range of backgrounds and in diverse caring situations.

Sierra, a young Wiradjuri unpaid carer who accesses Carer Gateway, said: "Being a carer is part of who I am and caring for my family is a big part of my culture".

Another First Nations carer, living in New South Wales, who chose not to be identified by name, said: "As carers, we often don't have time to look for support, but Carer Gateway has been designed with a carer in mind and is easy to use."

Wonnarua woman Nikyah Hutchings, a Carer Gateway First Nations Campaign Manager, told National Indigenous Times that "as an Aboriginal woman who grew up in a regional community, I know first hand that many First Nations women are carers, who care for their family, children, Elders and community members".

"It is a privilege to work on promoting Carer Gateway and supporting Aboriginal women in accessing support services in their local area," she said.

Grace Harding, also a Carer Gateway First Nations Campaign Manager, said that the service has spoken with many First Nations women caring for family, friends or community members who didn't know Carer Gateway existed to support them or felt like their focus shouldn't be on themselves.

"My hope is that more carers know it's ok to reach out for help and communities are strongest when everyone is strong," she said.

The service is running a campaign, featuring graphic illustrations by Barkindji and Malyangapa artist Jasmine Craciun, to raise awareness among those who need it so they are more likely to access it for support.

The service's organisers note that Carer Gateway is "designed by carers for carers", providing a range of free services to give unpaid carers "the support they need to navigate tough times". Services are available in-person, online and over the phone Australia-wide, including in regional areas.

Carer Gateway can be contacted online or via 1800 422 737 (Monday to Friday).