A significant crisis is affecting Australia's "sandwich generation"—individuals juggling care responsibilities for both older and younger relatives—with a staggering nine in ten (90%) experiencing signs of caregiving burnout. This is according to the Sandwich Generation Report 2025 by Australian Seniors. These carers dedicate an average of nearly 30 hours per week, amounting to approximately 1,500 hours a year, to their caregiving duties, which severely limits their personal time. Annabel Reid, CEO of Carers Australia, described the situation as a "hidden crisis," stating, "the burnout among sandwich generation carers is unsustainable and demands immediate attention."

The immense time commitment significantly impacts carers' personal lives. Beyond the sheer hours, 48% report that their social connections are affected. Furthermore, a culture of self-sacrifice is prevalent, with 38% of these carers (a figure rising to 44% among women) regularly prioritising the needs of others over their own.

The financial toll on the sandwich generation is substantial, exacerbated by the rising cost of living. Nearly half (49%) find it challenging to financially support both older parents and younger relatives. They contribute up to $18,000 annually towards the care of ageing parents, while 83% also provide financial support to younger family members, often for essential daily living costs such as groceries and bills. Despite these pressures, only 23% access available financial support, with a lack of awareness cited by 39% as a primary reason.

The health consequences for these carers are severe, with many suffering in silence. A concerning 70% of carers over the age of 50 report experiencing physical symptoms like chronic fatigue and persistent pain. Emotional exhaustion is common, affecting 47% of carers, alongside sleep disturbances reported by 46%. Compounding this, nearly half (46%, and 55% of women) state they never take breaks specifically focused on their health, and 65% fear the long-term impacts on their wellbeing.

Workplace pressures add another layer of difficulty. More than half (52%) of sandwich generation carers report increased stress levels, and 53% feel they receive only partial support from their employers. This often forces them into difficult choices, with 53% having to choose between their caregiving responsibilities and their career. Consequently, 61% (a figure that rises to 74% for those caring for both older and younger dependents simultaneously) face direct impacts on their financial independence or vital career progression opportunities, often leading to stalled professional growth. Annabel Reid stressed that, "Carers with supportive workplaces are significantly more likely to have healthy levels of wellbeing," highlighting the mutual benefits for employers who offer support.

The report also underscores a significant gender disparity in caregiving. Nearly half of women (48%) feel a societal pressure to take on the role of caregiver, and 64% believe they bear a greater share of the family care burden compared to men.

Despite the myriad challenges, carers are actively seeking solutions and coping mechanisms. Common strategies include engaging in exercise (37%) and seeking peer support (31%). Reid emphasized the importance of robust support networks, stating they "make a genuine, tangible difference to their wellbeing and ability to cope with these immense pressures."