New support for carers of loved ones living with dementia
The South Australian Government has commenced formal negotiations with Dementia Australia following the State Budget, committing $500,000 to support unpaid carers of people living with dementia.
Dementia can affect people’s memory, emotions and responses, and supporting people living with dementia can be challenging, especially for family and friends who often provide unpaid care while managing other family and work responsibilities.
Staff are now being recruited and trained to deliver a new program to support unpaid carers. Expected to commence in late 2026, the new program will build on Dementia Australia’s existing work and partnerships in South Australia, including with Carers SA.
About the program
The program will offer one-day carer wellbeing workshops online and in person in metropolitan and regional areas, helping carers develop skills, connect with each other and link to other support services. A separate part of the program will offer half-day immersive virtual reality experiences to help carers better understand what it’s like from the perspective of the person they care for.
Both elements of the new South Australian program have been successfully run in other states, ensuring the local program can ramp up quickly and deliver results for our community.
While health and aged care services provide critical support for those living with dementia, the majority live in the community, so it's critical to boost awareness, knowledge and capacity amongst the wider population.
The number of people living with dementia has increased 65% in the last 15 years. More than 35,000 South Australians now live with dementia, with that number expected to increase by thousands in the coming decade.
Amelia’s story
Amelia Veale, whose parents live with dementia and memory loss, shared her story about how dementia has profoundly impacted her family’s lives. Amelia cares for her parents with her siblings, while juggling single motherhood and full-time work.
“I’ve taken sick leave, annual leave…(aged care is) incredibly difficult to navigate…I have felt wildly unprepared.”
Amelia said that support services have been invaluable to her, and she welcomes the $500,000 grant to extend the amount of support available for unpaid carers in South Australia.
Support is available
Anyone who needs support and guidance, information or advice about accessing services and programs can contact the National Dementia Helpline operated by Dementia Australia.
People seeking help can call 1800 100 500, email helpline@dementia.org.au or visit: www.dementia.org.au/get-support/national-dementia-helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.