On this page
About the Carer of the Year award
The Carer of the Year Award acknowledges the important – but often overlooked – role of the 3 million at-home carers across Australia. Many of these carers are responsible for the complex role of providing bladder and bowel care.
This award recognises the essential role carers play in our community.
Continence Health Australia’s Carer of the Year Award highlights the extraordinary contribution carers play in our community.
Nominations for 2026 are closed.
If you are a carer, or know someone who is a carer that deserves to be recognised, please nominate for the Carer of the Year before 1 February 2027.
How to enter
This award is open to unpaid carers from all around Australia and nominations are invited from family, friends, health professionals or the person being cared for.
The winner of the Carer of the Year award will receive a prize of $1,000, which will be announced at 34th National Continence Health Conference in Melbourne in May 2026.
Nominations for 2026 closed on 1 February 2026.
The following questions are included in the application form:
- How long has the person been a carer?
- What challenges has the carer faced in being a carer?
- What does the carer do to help maintain the dignity and quality of life of the person being cared for?
Past Carer of the Year recipients
Keren Franks, Carer of the Year 2025
Keren Franks has dedicated more than 22 years to caring for her daughter Bella, who lives with Kabuki syndrome and complex health challenges. From managing kidney reflux and severe constipation to supporting Bella’s mobility needs, Keren’s commitment has been unwavering. Her love and resilience shine through, even during the toughest times, and she encourages other carers to seek support and prioritise self-care.
Read the stories of other past recipients:
2024: Maria Erceg
2023: Jenny Roe
2022: Joanne McGee
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to receive the award?
All unpaid carers are eligible to apply for the award.
Previous Carer of the Year winners are ineligible to apply.
For the nomination to be considered, the nominator must confirm that:
- The carer provides continence care
- The carer has been notified before making the nomination
- The carer is happy for their story to be published on this website and in Bridge Magazine
Who can nominate a carer?
Anyone can nominate a carer. This includes the carer themselves, a family member, friend, a health professional or the person who receives care. Nominators must notify the carer before making a nomination.
What does the winner receive?
The winner will receive a cash prize of $1,000.
How do I nominate a carer?
Please complete the nomination form. The form must be submitted before the deadline to go into the running.
When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be announced at the National Continence Health Conference. They will be notified by email and their details will be published on continence.org.au and in Bridge Magazine.