DCJ leads the way in supporting carers in the workplace

13 October 2025

As part of National Carers Week, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) proudly announces a significant milestone in supporting employees with caring responsibilities.

DCJ has become the first NSW whole of government department to receive the highest level of accreditation under the Carers + Employers program, setting a new benchmark for fully integrating carer-friendly workplace practices.

The Carers + Employers program, which encourages organisations to foster environments that support employees balancing work with care duties, recognises DCJ’s leadership in this area.

DCJ’s accreditation journey included initiatives such as comprehensive manager training on carer awareness, flexible work policies tailored to carers’ needs, and actively promoting a workplace culture that encourages carers to speak openly about their responsibilities without fear or stigma.

DCJ is proud to be among a growing group of government and non-government organisations which have already signed up to the Carers + Employers program, all formalising their shared commitment in creating supportive workplaces for carers.

Currently in NSW, there are almost 1,000,000 carers who provide essential unpaid care and support for a family member, friend or a loved one with a disability, or a medical condition, or a mental illness or is frail and aged.

The Carers + Employers program offers three levels of accreditation—Activate, Commit, and Excel—giving organisations the option to progress as they elevate their support for carers. Each level of accreditation is renewed annually, ensuring that organisations maintain their commitment to advance carer-friendly workplaces.

To learn more about becoming a carer-friendly employer, visit https://carersandemployers.org.au/.

DCJ Secretary, Michael Tidball said:

“We are delighted to have achieved the highest level of accreditation under the Carers + Employers program. Carers make an invaluable contribution—both to those they care for and in their workplaces.

“This accreditation recognises the comprehensive measures we have implemented across all areas to create an inclusive and flexible workplace where carers feel supported, celebrated and valued.

“We encourage other organisations to join us in creating work environments that recognise and respect the vital role carers play in strengthening our workplaces and communities.”

Carers NSW CEO, Elena Katrakis, said:

“More than 1 in 9 people in NSW are carers — many of them also employees. If you’re not a carer yourself, you will know one who is.

“Workplaces play a critical role in helping carers stay valued at work. The Carers + Employers program helps organisations take meaningful, structured action towards this.

“We hope DCJ’s Excel accreditation inspires more employers to follow their lead.”