The Department of Human Services (DHS) 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 cover help make sure carers are respected, listened to and supported.
The Act says public sector agencies must:
- do their best to make sure their staff know about the Carers Charter and follow its principles.
- make sure their human resources policies think about the needs of employees who also have caring roles.
- talk with carers, or groups that represent them, when developing or reviewing policies, programs or services that are designed for carers and the people they support.
Updates to the law
In late 2025, the Carers Recognition (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill 2025 (the Amendment Bill) passed both houses of Parliament.
The Amendment Bill brings in several changes. It will help ensure the Act represents the wide range of caring roles in our community and improve the Carers Charter.
This Amendment Bill is based on:
- the findings of the 2023 state review of the Act (PDF 522.1 KB)
- insights from the recent Commonwealth inquiry into the recognition of unpaid carers
- the 2024 National Carers Survey (PDF file)
- the National Carer Strategy 2024–2034.
The main changes include:
- widening the definition of ‘carer’
- strengthening the rules and reporting requirements under the Act
- updating the Carers Charter, and
- making sure the Act is reviewed every 5 years.
These reforms will come into effect mid to late 2026.
We are developing new resources to help public sector agencies comply with the changes to the Act. The changes will be published on this website.
Contact us
For any enquiries about the Act or the Amendment Bill, email CarersActReview@sa.gov.au
SA Carers Charter
The SA Carers Charter is a schedule of the Act. It aims to ensure that carers have the same rights, choices and opportunities as other South Australians. The Charter's seven key principles are:
- Carers have choices within their caring role
- Carers' health and wellbeing is critical to the community
- Carers play a critical role in maintaining the fabric of society
- Service providers work in partnership with carers
- Carers in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities need specific consideration
- All children and young people have the right to enjoy life and reach their potential
- Resources are available to provide timely, appropriate and adequate assistance to carers.
Detailed information on carers' rights and legislation from SA.gov.au