New laws strengthen recognition and support for SA's unpaid carers
Changes to the Carers Recognition Act 2005 (SA) (the Act) came into effect on 1 July 2026, delivering the most significant update to the Act in two decades and strengthening recognition and support for South Australia's estimated 245,000 unpaid carers.
Unpaid carers contribute around $6.36 billion worth of care in South Australia each year — care that would otherwise fall to the formal sector. These reforms ensure carers are better supported, both in the services they access and in their workplaces.
The amendments apply to all state government agencies and organisations contracted by government to provide services to carers and the people they care for.
The key changes
Broader definition of the term ‘carer’
A key amendment is a broadened definition of the term ‘carer’. The previous requirement that care must be provided on an ongoing basis has been removed, meaning people who support someone with episodic or short-term needs are now recognised. The definition also explicitly includes carers of people living with a chronic or terminal illness, dementia, or alcohol or other drug dependence.
A new Carers Charter
A new South Australian Carers Charter, embedded within the Act, formally recognises the critical role carers play in society and establishes the values and principles that must guide services for carers, as well as human resource policies which may significantly affect an employee’s caring role.
More reporting from public sector agencies
All public sector agencies will now be required to report annually on how they are meeting their obligations under the Act, using existing processes to minimise administrative burden.
The benefits for carers
When agencies and organisations contracted to deliver services to carers meet their obligations, carers can expect:
- staff being better equipped to identify and understand their needs
- services and programs more tailored to their circumstances
- to have a voice in the development and evaluation of policies, programs and services that affect them.
Carers employed in public sector agencies or contracted organisations should also find it easier to balance their caring role alongside their work.
The reforms draw on the findings of a 2023 review of the Act, the Commonwealth Inquiry into the Recognition of Unpaid Carers, and the National Carer Strategy 2024 to 2034.
The Department of Human Services has developed a suite of resources to support agencies in meeting their obligations under the amended Act.
Learn more about the changes and access the resources on the carers section of our website.