The Minister for Seniors and Volunteering has legislative responsibility for the Carers Recognition Act 2004. This Act seeks to recognise the role of carers in the community and provide a mechanism for involving carers in the provision of services that affect carers and their role.
Caring for seniors and people with disabilities is one of the most significant forms of unpaid work in the community. Family members and friends provide the bulk of this care, and the majority of carers are female. Caring can be equal to a full-time job, with many carers providing over 40 hours of care each week.
The Carers Advisory Council, which is established under the Act and supported by the Department for Communities, measures compliance with the Carers Recognition Act 2004 and provides advice to the Minister for Seniors and Volunteering.