Carers at Work: 2026 Tasmanian Business Awards

Celebrating Tasmanian employers creating workplaces where carers are valued, supported and able to thrive.

Between 11 and 17 October, during National Carers Week, we are shining a light on Tasmanian businesses that support carers at work by creating carer-inclusive workplaces. If your business goes above and beyond for Tasmania’s family and friend carers, or you know one that does, let us know, and it could win an inaugural Carers at Work Tasmanian Business Award.

What is a carer-inclusive workplace?

A carer-inclusive workplace is one where employees with caring responsibilities are valued and supported and able to contribute fully at work and progress in their careers while managing their caring role. Carers may support family members or friends with disability, chronic or life-limiting health condition, mental ill-health, drug or alcohol dependence, or age-related frailty. Carers may also be supporting a child because the child’s parent cannot, in an informal arrangement.

Supporting carers is not only a legal and ethical responsibility. It also improves employee morale, retention and productivity.

Key Dates

Applications & nominations close:
Thursday 1 October 2026

National Carers Week:
11–17 October 2026

Winners announced:
Wednesday 14 October 2026

Retention and engagement:

Supported carers are less likely to leave their jobs

Productivity:

Flexible, supportive policies help carers manage responsibilities without compromising performance.

Employer reputation:

Recognition as a carer-friendly employer attracts talent and enhances your reputation.

Why enter?

The Carers at Work Tasmanian Business Awards celebrate employers leading the way in carer-inclusive employment. Winners receive public recognition during National Carers Week — a powerful signal to your staff, your customers and the Tasmanian community that carers are valued in your workplace.

How to apply or nominate

There are two ways to take part. Businesses can apply directly, telling us how they support the carers in their workforce. And anyone, an employee, a carer, a customer or a community member, can nominate a Tasmanian business that deserves recognition.

Complete the form below, telling us about the business — its name, location and size, any CIWI or Carers + Employers accreditation, and most importantly, how it supports carers at work. Applications and nominations close Thursday 1 October 2026.

Going further: tools for employers

Whether or not you enter the Awards, these national programs can help your organisation become more carer-inclusive:

The Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative (CIWI):

Led by Carers Australia, offers a free 11-question self-assessment, e-learning modules, and a pathway to formal accreditation. Visit carerinclusive.com.au.

The Carers + Employers program:

Provides a tiered accreditation framework, Activate, Commit and Excel, to progressively embed carer-friendly practices, from flexible employment policies to awareness campaigns and practical workplace support.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?

Any business operating in Tasmania that employs staff, of any size or industry.

Yes! Employees, carers, customers and community members are all welcome to nominate a deserving Tasmanian business. We may contact the business to complete the picture.

No. Entry is free.

The Awards are about recognition rather than a prize. Winners will be publicly celebrated during National Carers Week as leaders in carer-inclusive employment.

No. Accreditation is not required. We simply ask about it to understand where the business is on its carer-inclusion journey.

Wednesday 14 October 2026, during National Carers Week (11–17 October).

Application and Nomination Form

I am *

About you

The Business

Accreditation

Does the business hold accreditation under either of the following programs? Accreditation is not required to enter — this simply helps us understand the business's journey. If you are nominating and don't know, leave blank.

Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative (CIWI)
Carers + Employers accreditation

Supporting carers in the workplace

How does the business support carers who are employees in the workplace? Tell us what it does and the difference it makes — for example flexible work arrangements, leave provisions, workplace culture, policies, training, or practical supports that go beyond legal obligations. If you are nominating, describe what you have seen or experienced. You may attach supporting material if you wish.

Click or drag a file to this area to upload.

    Declaration

    I understand that entering my name in the signature field is equivalent to my manual signature, and I consent to this declaration.

    Carers at Work Tasmanian Business Awards 2026 • Carers Tasmania and Care2Serve • We welcome applications and nominations celebrating support for carers of all genders, sexualities, cultural beliefs, and abilities.