Department of Communities and Justice becomes accredited carer employer

NSW Department of Communities and Justice becomes accredited carer employer

carer

The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) in New South Wales has been recognised with a new accreditation for its efforts supporting employees with caring responsibilities. 

The department has become the first NSW whole of government department to receive the highest level of accreditation under the Carers + Employers program. The accreditation program defines best practice standards for how workplaces can support staff with caring responsibilities. 

“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,” DCJ Secretary Michael Tidball said on the recognition. 

“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.”

Both government and non-government organisations have signed up for the Carers + Employers program. 

About one in nine Australians are carers and the program gives organisations a chance to become an Accredited Carer Employer. In NSW, there are almost 1,000,000 carers who provide unpaid care for a family member, friend or a loved one who is ageing or living with a disability or medical condition.

“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,” Carers NSW CEO Elena Katrakis said.

“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.” 

The program offers three levels of accreditation giving organisations the option to progress as they elevate their support for carers. Each level of accreditation is renewed annually.

Other accredited organisations include LegalAid NSW, Medibank, Macquarie and Suncorp.

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