Across the state, more than 245,000 South Australians provide unpaid care and support services. Photo: File.
The peak body representing South Australians who provide personal unpaid care to family or friends has backed the state government’s review of the laws governing the sector.
The review will assess if the almost 250,000 people who provide unpaid care in SA are adequately recognised and supported in the act which guides the government’s interactions with them.
Carers SA CEO David Militz welcomed the announcement of the review into the South Australian Carer Recognition Act 2005. “The review of this important legislation provides the opportunity to update and amplify the rights of South Australian carers now and into the future,” he said. “It is imperative that the carer voice continues to be heard and recognised as part of this process.”
Carers can be partners, parents, children, friends, neighbours or colleagues who provide assistance with personal care, lifting, mobility, medication, banking, shopping or housework.
While the person requiring care could be living with a disability, mental health condition, a chronic or terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or simply frail and ageing.
“Carers play an integral part in the community and are the foundation of Australia’s health, aged, disability, palliative, mental health and community care systems,” Mr Militz said.
“The invaluable social and economic contribution that carers make to society should be recognised and supported.”
SA Human Services Minister Nat Cook said the review would ensure people who take care of others in the SA community get the recognition they deserve.
“We want carers to have their voices heard during the consultation period and to be reminded of how important they are to our community,” she said.
“It’s important that carers and carer organisations have their say so we can better understand the needs and preferences of the SA carer community.
“We also know that around 30,000 of our state’s carers are under 25 years old, so we’d love to hear from as many young people as possible.”
The responses of carers will be used to inform recommendations to change the Act, which the SA Department of Human Services will consider.
For more information and to have your say, visit the SA Government website or email [email protected] by Friday 15 December 2023.
If you help care for someone, support is available for you too. Visit the SA Government website or Carers SA website for more information.
