Practical concerns

Financial support

For many people, cancer treatment can be a financial strain. This could be caused by extra costs you may have during and after treatment, or loss of income. Financial support and advice is available:

• Call your local Cancer Council on 13 11 20 to find out what support services are available. Depending on where you live, Cancer Council may be able to provide financial counselling support (if you are struggling with debts and everyday expenses) or refer you to a financial planner (for advice on income and asset management).
• Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 for free, confidential and independent financial counselling.
• Ask your social worker if any financial or practical assistance is available to you. If you have to travel for follow-up appointments, ask about patient travel assistance.
• Ask your utility company, loan provider or local council how they can help you manage payment of your bills (e.g. electricity, water, gas, internet, phone bills), loans or rates. Check if you qualify for any rebates, concessions or hardship programs.
• Ask your superannuation fund if you are eligible for early access to your super or any attached insurance policies. Talk to a financial counsellor or planner about how this will affect your long-term financial situation.

Download our booklet ‘Cancer and Your Finances’

Download our fact sheet ‘Superannuation and Cancer’

Insurance

Applying for new insurance (life, income protection or travel) may be harder because you have had cancer. You are generally required to provide your medical history, including any diagnosis of cancer. In general, you should be able to buy insurance for things that are not cancer-related (like travel insurance for lost luggage or life insurance for accidental death).

It may be difficult to buy travel insurance that covers medical problems that are related to cancer, but you should be able to get coverage for non-cancer-related medical costs. It is a good idea to check exactly what is covered before buying a new insurance policy.

If you need legal advice about an insurance policy, you can contact the Insurance Law Service at the Financial Rights Legal Centre or call them on 1300 663 464.

Download our fact sheet ‘Insurance and Cancer’

Legal services

Depending on where you live and your financial situation, Cancer Council may be able to connect you with a lawyer for free advice about legal issues that may arise as a result of cancer. Call 13 11 20 to find out more. You can also contact Community Legal Centres Australia or the law society in your state or territory.

Find out more about our ‘Legal Referral Service’

Working after treatment ends

Having a job is an important part of life for many people. Aside from income, work can provide satisfaction, social contact, a sense of normality, and a way of maintaining self-esteem. If you took time off work for treatment and are returning to an existing job, talk to your employer about a return-to-work plan.

It’s a good idea to speak with your doctor about your ability to perform your usual tasks. For some people, returning to the same job may not be possible due to changes in ability and length of time away. The desire to reduce work-related stress or seek more meaningful work may also motivate people to change jobs.

Do I have a right to return to my job?

Australian laws require an employer to take reasonable steps to accommodate the effects of an employee’s illness. This may mean, for example, that your employer is flexible with start/finish times, gives you time off to attend medical appointments or allows you to return to work in stages. If you are unable to carry out your previous role, your employer doesn’t have to offer you a different job unless your cancer is work-related.

Must I say I had cancer in job applications?

While some people may want to tell a potential employer that they have had cancer, you don’t need to unless it may impact on your ability to do the job. If you are asked about a gap in your résumé, you can say that you had a health issue and it’s now resolved. A prospective employer is permitted to ask you about your ability to perform tasks that are an essential part of the job (e.g. lifting heavy boxes). If some tasks are a problem for you because of the cancer or treatment, it’s best to mention this at the interview.

What if I can no longer work?

If cancer or its treatment has made it impossible for you to return to your previous work, then rehabilitation and retraining programs can prepare you for another job. Discuss this with your employer or GP.

If you are permanently unable to return to work, you may be able to access your superannuation under the permanent incapacity condition. If you have total and permanent disability (TDP) insurance or income protection insurance, you may also be able to make a claim. If you are unable to return to work, visit Centrelink or call 132 717 to see if you are
eligible for the Disability Support Pension or other payments.

I had planned to work beyond 65, but now I’m thinking I’ll retire sooner. I have different priorities now. I’ve been given a second chance.” JULIE

Discrimination at work

A lack of knowledge about cancer may mean some people are treated differently at work after a cancer diagnosis. Employers and colleagues may think you need more time off or wonder about your ability to perform your usual role.

Anyone who has had cancer is protected by the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992, which prevents employers from discriminating against people with disabilities in the workplace. For details: contact your state or territory anti-discrimination body; visit the Australian Human Rights Commission; or visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Download our booklet ‘Cancer, Work and You’

Download our workplace fact sheets