About the Council

What is the Carer Council?
The Carer Council was a key recommendation from Dr Fiona Arney’s Independent Inquiry into Foster and Kinship Care. The Carer Council is an advisory council that provides a dedicated platform for the Carer voice to be heard by State government on issues crucial to improving the child protection system and the rights of Carers.

What is an advisory council?
A Government or Ministerial advisory council is a body that provides advice and expertise related to a specific group or issue. These bodies are a consultative mechanism, providing perspectives from and representing the views of key stakeholders.

A Minister may determine the structure and functions of the advisory council depending on how the advisory council/body has been established.

The core function of an advisory council is to provide independent advice on key topics. While each council is different, their functions generally include providing feedback on the design of policy and practice and the provision of advice, and it is for the Minister and Government to decide how and if they accept and implement the advice presented. A Minister may also suggest topics of discussion or request advice on certain matters.

These functions do not extend to the provision of individual advocacy or dispute resolution.

Can I contact the Carer Council directly?
Carers are encouraged to contact Lauren Gibbs, Carer Council Project Lead on freecall 1800 723 272 or email:
carercouncil@cfc-sa.org.au

How can my issues be heard by the Carer Council?
Public consultation sessions will be held for Carers to provide their feedback on issues you would like the Carer Council to consider - click here for further details

To find out more about the Carer Council - click here to review our Carer Council Q&A sheet (updated 7/3/24)

E - carercouncil@cfc-sa.org.au
W - www.cfc-sa.org.au/carer-council
Freecall 1800 732 272

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