The increasing need for carers
The demographics of caring has changed significantly over the last 20 years and this trend is expected to continue. The demand for carers will increase and is likely to affect each of us at some stage, either as a carer or as somebody requiring care.
The ABS 2003 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers indicates that in South Australia, 53% of carers aged 15 and over were employed, with 34% of these working fulltime. As more people become carers it can be expected there will be an increasing proportion of carers in the workforce. Flexible working conditions will become necessary to manage the demands of work and caring.
The role of the Office for Carers
The Office for Carers was established in the Department for Families and Communities (DFC) in October 2006. The Office administers the SA Carers Recognition Act 2005 and works with other government departments to improve the focus and response of government to the issues of carers. Much of the focus of the Office to date has been to increase awareness and understanding of the Act, the Carers Policy (PDF 558KB) (Word 2.6MB) and the Carers Charter (PDF 196KB) (Word 666KB).
Office for Carers distributes a quarterly newsletter which gives an overview of current issues and help for carers.
The Carers Recognition Act 2005
The SA Carers Recognition Act 2005 (the Act) and the Carers Charter(PDF 196kB) aim to bring about changes in South Australia to improve the recognition and support of carers.
The Act acknowledges carers as individuals and as partners in providing care and acknowledges the enormous contribution carers make.
The Carers Charter, comprising seven principles, is enshrined in the legislation and provides South Australian Government departments and agencies with a framework to recognise carers and address the issues they face.
The Office for Carers works alongside other Government departments and divisions within the Department for Families and Communities to implement the Carers Recognition Act.
The Act requires annual reporting by the departments on the actions taken to reflect compliance with the Act and with the principles of the Carers Charter. Office for Carers submits an annual report to the Minister for Families and Communities outlining progress. Those Departments that report are:
- Department of Education and Children’s Services
- Department for Families and Communities
- Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
- Department of Health
- Department of Justice
- Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure.
Every year Office for Carers submits a report to the Minister for Families and Communities outlining annual progress of these departments.
SA Carers Reference Group
The group advises the Office for Carers about the implementation of the Carers Policy, Carers Charter and Carers Recognition Act and provides advice on other issues relating to carers. The group comprises carers and representatives from carer organisations and key Government departments.
Publications and research
Visit our reports and publications pages for the latest on the subject of caring.