Imagine being a child and having to step into the role of a protector for your sibling, all while navigating the challenges of school. This is the reality Michael Roberts faced, and it’s a story that sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of young carers. Michael, a 21-year-old nursing student from Naarm/Melbourne, vividly recalls the day he was pulled out of a crucial maths test to assist his older brother, Owen, who has Down syndrome. 'I was told Owen is very distraught, we need you to come help him out,' Michael shares. He rushed to Owen’s aid, settled him, and then returned to his test—but the lost time was never recovered. This was just one of countless moments where Michael’s role as a caregiver intersected with his education, leaving him feeling unsupported and overwhelmed.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While Michael’s dedication to Owen is undeniable, the lack of acknowledgment and support from school staff left him grappling with academic setbacks and emotional exhaustion. 'You just get tired… and you can revert straight to anger,' he admits. Michael’s story highlights a critical gap in how schools address the needs of young carers, who often sacrifice their own well-being to support their loved ones. We sat down with Michael to discuss what kind of support could have made a difference for him, and to celebrate his unshakable bond with Owen.
'He was just my older brother,' Michael reflects, recalling his childhood before school. Owen was his constant companion, always eager to join in whatever Michael was doing. Even now, if Michael mentions a plan, Owen chimes in with, 'Yep, I’m doing it too.' But school brought new challenges. Kids would stare or make comments, and Michael quickly became Owen’s protector. 'My mum always said people would stare because he’s very handsome,' Michael recalls, but as he grew older, he realized the stares were often rooted in misunderstanding. He’d confront onlookers, asking, 'What are you staring at?' Yet, Owen’s confidence never wavered. 'If people are looking at him, he’ll announce, 'It’s because I’m handsome!'' Michael says with a laugh.
And this is the part most people miss: While Michael’s role as a protector strengthened their bond, it also made school harder—both academically and socially. He missed opportunities, took on extra responsibilities, and often felt isolated. In primary school, during a torrential downpour, Michael checked on Owen only to find him missing from class. Teachers had no idea where he was, so Michael searched and found him sheltering in a cubby house. Years later, in Year 11, he was pulled out of that maths test—a moment that symbolized the constant tug-of-war between his duties as a carer and his own education. Yet, Michael acknowledges that these experiences taught him invaluable skills. 'A lot of people said I was mature for my age,' he notes.
Here’s the bold question: Should schools do more to support young carers like Michael? He believes so. While teachers are often overburdened, Michael suggests that counsellors and other support staff could play a crucial role in assisting young carers. 'It’s not just about supporting people like my brother,' he explains, 'but also supporting the people around them who are doing so much.' He also calls for greater understanding of Down syndrome, moving beyond stereotypes and misconceptions. 'Actually get to know them,' he urges. Flexible assignment deadlines and university policies that recognize caregiving responsibilities could make a world of difference, he adds. Currently, asking for extensions due to caregiving feels like 'bullshitting the system,' he says.
Despite the challenges, Michael’s love for Owen shines through. 'My brother is awesome,' he declares. Owen is a diehard Hawks fan, a national gold medallist in skiing, and a social butterfly with a girlfriend and a passion for independent travel. Even on the tram to uni, Owen insists on sitting alone, embodying his fierce independence. Michael still supports him, whether it’s chauffeuring him around or joining him at discos with his girlfriend. 'Having Owen as my brother is awesome,' he repeats, his pride unmistakable.
Here’s the thought-provoking question for you: How can we better support young carers like Michael, ensuring they don’t have to choose between their education and their caregiving responsibilities? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could lead to real change. Organizations like Carers Australia are already working to raise awareness among school principals, teachers, and pastoral care workers, but there’s still much to be done. Michael’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every young carer is a world of sacrifice, love, and untapped potential.
