What happened?
Today, 12 March 2025, Young Carers Action Day (YCAD) put the spotlight on the 391,300 young carers in Australia, recognising their invaluable contributions.
The theme, “Give Me A Break,” underscored the urgent need for rest and respite for young carers juggling caregiving, school, and personal commitments. In Rockhampton, Carers Queensland hosted a special event to give young carers a well-earned break and access to vital support services.
Why it mattered?
Young carers are often unrecognised despite providing irreplaceable support to loved ones. Many experience stress, fatigue, and anxiety, with their education, mental health, and social lives often affected.
The event aimed to raise awareness, foster community support, and provide direct assistance to young carers in the region.
Local Impact
Carers Queensland’s Young Carer Navigator program, which operates in Rockhampton and Gladstone, continues to support young carers by helping them stay in school or work, access social connections, and manage their well-being. The event highlighted Carers Queensland’s advocacy efforts to improve recognition and funding for young carers across Queensland.
By the numbers:
- 3 million unpaid carers in Australia, with 12.9% under the age of 25, up from 8.9% in 2018 (ABS 2022).
- Young carers often go unnoticed, with many considering caregiving a normal part of family life.
- Carers Queensland’s Young Carer Navigator provides free support and information to young carers in Rockhampton and Gladstone.
Zoom In
Ava, 10, cares for her younger brother, Alfie, who has a disability, while balancing school. Sarah Bone, Carers Queensland’s General Manager of Carer Advocacy and Support, reinforced their vital role:“Young carers like Ava are an essential part of our communities, offering vital support that would otherwise be irreplaceable.” “Their contributions are extraordinary, but the cost to their own well-being can be immense.”
Zoom Out
Young Carers Action Day, led by Carers Trust in the UK, is a global movement dedicated to supporting young carers. The rising number of young carers in Australia highlights the need for structured support, policy improvements, and increased community awareness.
What to look for next?
- Carers Queensland continues to advocate for better recognition, funding, and support programs for young carers across Queensland.
- Young carers needing assistance can contact Carers Queensland at 1300 747 636 or visit Carers Queensland’s website.
- More events and initiatives will be developed to ensure young carers receive the break and recognition they deserve.
