Although a “relatively modern concept”, an ANU project has found that “grandparenthood” as a role may have deeper roots in Australian history than initially thought. 

“The 20th century saw significant social changes in countries like Australia,” says ANU demographer, Dr Liz Allen.

“Lower fertility rates, falling child mortality and longer life expectancy were all major contributors.

“No-fault divorce, which came into effect in Australia in 1975, allowed grandparents to apply for a parenting order to spend time with their grandchildren.”

This, Dr Allen says, has led to new public conversations about the rights of grandparents.

“In more recent times, an ageing population has led to even greater potential for grandparenting,” she says.

According to Dr Allen’s research team, while grandparents play a fundamental role in many families (including sharing the load of caring for children), they’ve often “been overlooked in Australian history”.

“Our preliminary data shows that generations of Australians have benefitted from grandparenting far beyond its economic value,” she says.

“Almost six in 10 adults were cared for by their grandparents growing up. More than two thirds of grandparents providing care do so monthly.”

As part of the research, Dr Allen’s team will also conduct interviews with people of Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, English and other backgrounds to look into Australia’s history with migration.

“Nearly half the Australian population has a parent born overseas,” she says.

“Their histories help us understand Australia’s national identity and nation building in the postwar era.”

Without encouraging conversations about grandparenting, Dr Allen says society could be at risk of losing the opportunity to preserve and understand the stories of family, caregiving and culture that is part of Australia’s history.

Information at grandparentsaustralia.net