Thousands of South Australians caring for loved ones living with dementia are set to receive additional support, with the State Government committing $500,000 to a new program aimed at helping unpaid carers navigate one of life’s most challenging roles.
Announced as part of the 2026-27 State Budget, the funding will support family members and friends who provide unpaid care for people living with dementia, a condition that now affects more than 35,000 South Australians.
The number of people living with dementia in South Australia has increased by 65 per cent over the past 15 years and is expected to continue climbing in the years ahead, placing growing pressure on carers who often juggle work, family responsibilities and round-the-clock care.
The new initiative will be delivered in partnership with Dementia Australia and is expected to begin in late 2026. Recruitment and training of staff is already underway as formal negotiations continue following the State Budget announcement.
The program will build on Dementia Australia’s existing work in South Australia, including partnerships with organisations such as Carers SA.
A key feature will be a series of one-day wellbeing workshops, available both online and in person across metropolitan and regional South Australia. These sessions will focus on helping carers build practical skills, connect with others in similar situations and access additional support services.
The program will also include immersive virtual reality experiences designed to give carers a deeper understanding of what it is like to live with dementia. Through half-day sessions, participants will experience simulations that provide insight into the challenges faced by people living with the condition.
The virtual reality component and wellbeing workshops have already been successfully implemented interstate, allowing South Australia to fast-track delivery and build on proven models.
Minister for Human Services and Minister for Seniors and Ageing Well Katrine Hildyard shared, “Carers provide immense love to the family members for whom they care. This $500,000 investment is about making sure they have the support, skills and connection they need to look after their loved ones, and themselves.
“As our population ages, more South Australians will find themselves caring for someone living with dementia. We’re helping make sure they don’t do it alone.”
Professor Tanya Buchanan, Chief Executive Officer of Dementia Australia added, “Caring for someone living with dementia can be deeply meaningful but can also be very challenging. Almost half of all dementia carers provide 60 plus hours of care per week.
“That is the equivalent to 1.5 full-time jobs. As the health and aged care systems struggle to meet demand for services, supporting carers to maintain their caring role and helping them connect to others sharing the same experience is critical.”
Anyone seeking support, information or advice about dementia can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
