Caring can be unpredictable and care arrangements complex, so it's vital that you talk with your employer about your concerns and commitments from the outset.
Your rights as a carer in paid work
You have the right to flexible working arrangements under the SA Equal Opportunity Act 1984.
Under the Fair Work Act 2009, you can:
- request flexible working arrangements if you're the parent or carer of a person with disability under 18 years of age
- use annual leave entitlements to cover sickness or caring responsibilities
- negotiate with your employer to draw up an individual arrangement that changes the conditions of your modern award or enterprise agreement to meet a genuine need.
The Carers SA website provides information and support for carers.
Finding or returning to work
- Approach carer support organisations or employment agencies for advice.
- Talk to others who have been in a similar position. Local carer support organisations may be able to connect you with someone who is in the same situation.
- Ensure you know your entitlements under applicable industrial or equal opportunity legislation.
- Find out if a prospective employer has carer or work-life balance policies.
- Be honest about your situation, especially if you require flexible working arrangements.
- If you have been out of the workforce for a very long time, consider whether your skills have become dated. This will be more likely in some professions than in others. Consider updating your skills through further training or re-training for a different profession.
- Consider getting assistance to update your resume and interview skills.
