Young carers: Impacts of caring on children's learning and wellbeing

This report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies examines how caring responsibilities affect children's education, development and wellbeing using data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). The research focuses on young people aged 14–15 who provide regular unpaid care for a family or household member with disability, chronic illness, mental illness or age-related needs.

The report finds that young carers often grow up in more disadvantaged circumstances than their peers. They are more likely to experience financial hardship, live in jobless households and have fewer opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities or cultural outings. These disadvantages emerge well before they begin caring and contribute to lower educational outcomes later in life.

Young carers were found to have lower Year 9 scores, were less likely to complete Year 12 or undertake higher education, and often had less time for homework, study and social activities because of their caring responsibilities. Despite these challenges, the report also highlights their resilience. Many young carers maintain levels of psychosocial wellbeing similar to their peers and develop empathy, maturity, responsibility and problem-solving skills through their caring role.

The report concludes that improving outcomes requires earlier identification of young carers and stronger support across schools, health services, and communities. It recommends flexible education arrangements, targeted financial assistance, improved access to support services, and greater recognition of young carers' contributions to reduce educational disadvantage while protecting their wellbeing and future opportunities.