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 help make sure carers are respected, listened to and supported.
Changes from 1 July 2026
In late 2025, the Carers Recognition (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act 2025 (the Amendment Act) passed both houses of Parliament.
The Amendment Act will bring 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 Act 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
- the National Carer Strategy 2024 to 2034.
The Amendment Act makes several changes including:
- 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.
These changes will come into effect from 1 July 2026.
We are developing new resources to help public sector agencies understand and comply with their obligations under the amended Act. These resources will be published on this website.
Contact us
Email DHSCarersPolicy@sa.gov.au
SA Carers Charter
The Act includes the SA Carers Charter. The SA Carers Charter aims to ensure that carers have the same rights, choices and opportunities as other South Australians. It includes seven key principles:
- 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.
A new version of the SA Carers Charter will come into effect from 1 July 2026.
Detailed information on carers' rights and legislation from SA.gov.au