National strategy puts spotlight on Australia’s 390,000 young carers
Share
In a bid to ease the pressures on Australia’s young carers, the Albanese Labor Government has announced a significant funding increase to the Young Carer Bursary Program. The boost comes amid growing recognition of the challenges faced by those aged 12 to 25 who provide unpaid care while juggling their studies and work commitments.
There are currently three million unpaid carers across the country, and around 390,000 of these are young Australians, roughly one in every classroom. Their caring duties can involve supporting someone with a disability, mental illness, or medical condition, often whilst simultaneously attending school or tertiary education.
In recognition of these pressures, the Government will increase the total bursary amount to $4,000. A total of 1,600 bursaries will be made available each year, with a special one-off increase in 2025 allowing nearly 3,000 young carers to benefit. These funds can go toward essentials such as school uniforms, textbooks, tuition, and transportation costs.
Support for young carers will also extend beyond financial help, as the Government has committed to maintaining the Young Carers Network through to 2027. This online platform provides a forum where young carers can connect, access resources, and reduce the sense of isolation many experience in their caring roles.
These measures form part of the National Carers Strategy Action Plan 2024–27, launched alongside the Strategy last December, which focuses on recognising and assisting unpaid carers nationwide.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth emphasised the Government’s commitment to alleviating the burdens young carers face:
“Through the National Carers Strategy the Government wanted to see carers ‘better recognised, respected, valued and supported, both in their caring roles and in their wider lives’.”
She added: “For young carers, we know their caring responsibilities can have significant impacts on their education, employment and social connections.”
Minister Rishworth also highlighted the importance of this additional funding: “With this boost to the Young Carer Bursary Program, we are increasing the number and value of bursaries on offer to help young carers balance study and caring and meet current cost of living challenges.”
“The value of this program to young carers is reflected in the influx of applications we receive. This funding is often a much needed lifeline for young carers and I’m proud our Albanese Labor Government is investing in this important program.”
Related: The sandwich generation dilemma: Jane Morrell sheds light on the challenges of balancing care
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.