The Department of Human Services looks after the South Australian Carers Recognition Act 2005.
The Act recognises the important work unpaid carers do in our community. It sets rules for government agencies and contracted organisations that provide services to carers and the people they care for. These rules help make sure carers are respected, listened to and supported.
The Act also includes principles that guide:
- how people provide services to carers and the people they care for
- human resource policies.
These principles are in a section called the Carers Charter.
Changes from 1 July 2026
The Carers Recognition (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act 2025 brings in several changes from 1 July 2026. These include:
- widening the definition of ‘carer’
- strengthening the rules and reporting requirements under the Act, including making them apply to all public sector agencies
- updating the Carers Charter
- making sure the Act is reviewed every 5 years.
Resources for agencies
We have developed resources to help public sector agencies and contracted organisations understand and comply with their obligations under the amended Act:
- a fact sheet on the amended Act and Carers Charter (PDF 174.1 KB)
- guidelines to support compliance (PDF 481.1 KB)
- reporting guidance (PDF 137.3 KB).
Contact us
If you have any questions about these resources or South Australia’s carers recognition legislation, email DHSCarersPolicy@sa.gov.au
SA Carers Charter
SA Carers Charter is part of the Act and describes how carers should be valued, respected and supported in their caring role.
A new version of the SA Carers Charter will come into effect from 1 July 2026.
Related information
SA.gov.au - detailed information on carers' rights and legislation affecting carers