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Bursary

Eligiblity

Am I a young carer?

You’re a young carer if you’re between 12 and 25 years old and you provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend living with a disability, medical condition (including a terminal or chronic illness), mental illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or is frail and aged.

Many carers may not even realise they’re taking on caring responsibilities.

Young carers may do many things, such as:

  • Providing emotional support and advocating for loved ones
  • Helping with personal care
  • Looking after household expenses
  • Monitoring medications
  • Doing everyday chores, like washing, cleaning, cooking and mowing the lawn.
  • Young carers may provide support every day, or every week, or only when they’re needed.

Young carers aged under 12 attending secondary school may be eligible, and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Am I eligible to apply?

We want to help as many young carers as possible through Young Carer Bursary Program. You may be eligible if you can say “yes” to all of these:

Your Age

  • You’re between 12 and 25 years old (young carers aged under 12 who are attending secondary school may be eligible and will be considered on a case-by-case basis).
  • You’ll stay in this age range for the whole time you’d receive the bursary.

Your caring role

  • You provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend living with a disability, medical condition (including a terminal or chronic illness), mental illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or is frail and aged.

Your residency

  • You’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
  • You’re living in Australia.

Your education

  • You’re studying (or plan to study next year) at one of these:
    • High school
    • Home school and registered with a state or territory education authority
    • TAFE
    • Private college
    • University
    • Other recognised tertiary education institute
    • Your study can be full-time or part-time

Other bursaries or scholarships

  • You’re not receiving another bursary or scholarship for 2026 (worth more than $500).

Your qualifications

  • You don’t already have an advanced diploma, bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.

Still not sure?

If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, don’t worry! Here are some examples that might help:

  • “I’m 11 now, but I’ll be 12 when I start Year 7 next year.” — You can apply!
  • “I help look after my little brother who is living with autism.” — You’re a young carer!
  • “I’m studying a certificate course at TAFE part-time.” — That counts as eligible study!
  • “I got a small scholarship from my school last year, but it’s finished now.” — You can apply for a Young Carer Bursary this year!

Ready to apply?

Great! If you meet all the eligibility criteria, we’d love to receive your application. Head over to our Apply page to get started.

Need more help?

If you’re still not sure if you’re eligible, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!