Connecting Carers in Indigo: Partnerships and Co-Design in Action

1 Oct 2025

Projects with co-design at their heart leads to results to be proud of

Two recent projects, Connecting Carers in Indigo and Continued Connections: Indigo Carers, have strengthened support for carers across the Indigo Shire. Supported by the Victorian Government, these initiatives were a collaboration between Chiltern Neighbourhood House, Quercus Beechworth, Yackandandah Community Centre, Beechworth Health Service, Indigo Shire Council, and Indigo North Health.

At the heart of the projects was co-design, with carers actively shaping activities and resources to meet their needs. Carers contributed to the development of support groups, service mapping, and the Carers Companion handbook—a locally designed resource now used by multiple agencies to guide carers at any stage of their journey. Project outcomes included connecting carers with local service providers, focusing on health and wellbeing, establishing new carer support groups in Yackandandah, Chiltern, and Beechworth, and linking carers to broader networks across the region.

Maree Murphy, Manager of Chiltern Neighbourhood House, said: “The project has been an amazing opportunity for carers to learn more about what resources are available to them, create friendships amongst themselves and those they are caring for, and to have carers realise that there are people in similar situations to them.” She reflected on the value of the partnerships, adding: “It has enabled us to share information and resources, advise and refer carers to what is available at other centres, and just given us an opportunity to discuss ideas.”

Through collaboration, co-design, and a focus on carers’ voices, these projects have not only built practical tools like the Carers Companion, but also strengthened networks, improved access to services, and fostered meaningful connections for carers across Indigo. Maree said: “The handbook has been a beautiful resource created with relevant and thoughtful content. Being able to hand something to carers that you’re proud of is wonderful. The fact we were successful in obtaining second-round funding shows there is a real need for support and resources, and we are so happy to be involved.”