Informal care of family members comes at a significant cost in lost income and employment opportunities, with only some assistance from allowances and pensions. Surveys have found that many carers have difficulties in meeting living expenses or the extra medical costs. This article outlines the views of Carers Australia, a peak representative body, on policies and incentives to improve the financial status and labour force choices of carers. These include increasing government funded income support, establishing a superannuation scheme for carers, funding respite care, and promoting carer-friendly workplace policies.