Financial support for young carers

The Young Carer Bursary Program helps young carers to study and manage their caring roles by reducing their need to work.

About the program

The Young Carer Bursary Program assists young carers aged 12-25 years to continue their education. It provides financial assistance to reduce their need to undertake part-time work while studying and managing caring responsibilities. Each bursary is valued at $3,768. 

Carers Australia is the national peak body representing Australia’s 3 million unpaid carers. It has delivered Young Carer Bursary Program since its commencement in 2014.  

From 2023, the Australian Government is providing around $20 million for Young Carer Bursary Program over 3 years. Bursaries will be awarded to eligible young carers in the greatest need who apply during the advertised application periods. 

Young Carers Network

Learn more or apply for a Young Carers Bursary 

Young Carer Bursary Program evaluation 

We commissioned the Young Carer Bursary Program evaluation in 2016. It was conducted by Inside Policy. 

The evaluation consisted of interviews with: 

  • past and present recipients of the bursary 
  • our staff 
  • Carers Australia representatives 
  • members of the independent expert advisory panel.  

The evaluation also included quantitative analysis of survey and program administrative data. 

The evaluation found the Young Carer Bursary Program assists bursary recipients to: 

  • stay in education 
  • continue in their caring role 
  • increase their social connections 
  • reduce the daily pressure/stress they experience. 

An evaluation of the Young Carer Bursary Program - Summary Report

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An evaluation of the Young Carer Bursary Program - Final Report

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