Australia as a whole is beginning to recognise the needs of young carers, with work starting in the ACT within the last three years. It can be argued that in the past there was a greater expectation that children should work, and take care of family members. This is particularly relevant in light of the history of childhood, and the notion of childhood as a social construct, rather than a biological condition . On the other hand children are a minority group whose secondary status has been codified in many social institutions.
Separate laws govern their lives.
Social policy in relation to children commonly emphasises not their rights, but their needs. There are many definitions and categories of who is a young carer, and what they should be doing to be considered a young carer. These differing definitions usually relate to a particular research focus, or eligibility criteria for a service. Some young people may also be looking after friends or neighbours. The definition does not include young people who baby-sit, or who take responsibility for younger siblings if both parents are working full time.