Bendigo Health has become the first public health service in Victoria to achieve accreditation as a Carer Inclusive Workplace, recognising its commitment to supporting employees who balance work with caring responsibilities.
The accreditation acknowledges organisations that create supportive workplaces for unpaid carers through flexible policies, practical support, awareness initiatives and a workplace culture that recognises the important role carers play both at work and in the community.
For Bendigo Health employee Rebecca Quinn, the recognition reflects the reality of life for many working carers.
Rebecca, an Assessment and Planning Officer in Bendigo Health's Carer Support Services team, supports unpaid carers across the region while also caring for her 19-year-old son William and helping support her elderly mother.
"It's like playing Tetris all the time," Rebecca said.
"You're constantly working out what's happening, who's picking up who, where someone needs to be and what support is in place. You just keep going because that's what carers do."
Rebecca said her personal experience helps her connect with the carers she supports through her work.
"I think it's the empathy and just understanding where people are at," she said.
"Sometimes people call in when they're in crisis and they just need somebody to hear them."
Manager of Carer Support Services Bronwyn Parsons said the accreditation reinforces Bendigo Health's commitment to creating a workplace where carers feel recognised, supported and able to thrive in their careers.
"We support unpaid carers across our community every day, so it's important that we also support the carers who work within our organisation," Bronwyn said.
"Many people don't identify themselves as carers, even though they're regularly supporting a parent, partner, child, friend or neighbour. This accreditation helps raise awareness and lets staff know help is available when they need it."
The accreditation will help strengthen awareness of existing supports available to staff, including flexible work arrangements, leave provisions, wellbeing programs and specialist carer support services.
Bronwyn said creating an environment where carers feel comfortable seeking support benefits both employees and the organisation.
"It takes courage for someone to say, 'I'm a carer and I need help'," she said.
"We want staff to know they're not alone. Having this accreditation helps normalise those conversations and reassures people that support is there if and when they need it."
For Rebecca, that understanding can make a significant difference.
"If something changes at the last minute, and that happens often when you're caring for someone, knowing you can have a conversation and that people understand takes a huge weight off your shoulders," she said.
"You don't need people to solve everything. Sometimes you just need that understanding."
As Victoria's first accredited Carer Inclusive Workplace in the public health service, Bendigo Health is helping lead the way in creating workplaces where carers feel valued, supported and empowered to remain connected to meaningful careers while continuing their caring responsibilities.
Local support for carers: Bendigo Health Website - Carer Support Services
National Carers Week: 11 to 17 October 2026