SA's Carers Recognition Act under review: feedback wanted

The Carers Recognition Act is being reviewed and the state government wants your feedback on it, before the proposed changes are put to parliament to vote on. There are about 250,000 unpaid carers in the SA.

Carers can be partners, parents, children, friends, neighbours or colleagues who provide assistance with personal care, lifting, mobility, administering medication, banking, shopping or housework.

Led by the Department of Human Services, the review will assess if the Act adequately recognises and supports carers in their roles. Following consultation, responses will be used to inform recommendations to change the Act. The department will then consider the recommendations and take appropriate action.

Human services minister Nat Cook said the act acknowledges the valuable role of carers in the community and guides government agencies in their interactions with them.

"The role of a carer is in equal parts both rewarding and demanding and is interwoven in the health, disability, mental health and aged care sectors," she said.

"This review is to ensure people who take care of others in our community get the recognition they deserve."

Carers SA chief executive officer David Militz welcomes the review.

"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. The invaluable social and economic contribution that carers make to society should be recognised and supported," he said.

"The review of this important legislation provides the opportunity to update and amplify the rights of South Australian carers now and into the future. It is imperative that the carer voice continues to be heard and recognised as part of this process."

To give your feedback, click here and submit your response by December 15.

If you help care for someone, you can visit dhs.sa.gov.au/how-we-help/carers or www.carerssa.com.au for details.

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