Legal and financial support for carers

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be both rewarding and challenging. Accessing the right legal and financial support is essential to ensure carers can navigate the health system and plan for the future effectively. Carers also have the right to be treated with respect and considered as a part of the care team. The resources below ensure that carers are well-supported legally, financially, and emotionally, allowing them to manage their duties with clarity and confidence. For more detailed information, visit Carer Gateway Legal Services. 

Legal support

  1. Legal rights for carers: Carers in Australia are protected under the *Carer Recognition Act 2010* and various state and territory laws. These laws ensure carers are treated with respect, have access to information about the health of the person they care for, and are recognised as partners in care. Learn more about your legal rights here.
  2. Legal Aid services: Legal Aid commissions in each state and territory provide free or low-cost legal advice on medical decision-making, financial management, protection against abuse or exploitation and more. Access Legal Aid services in your state or territory here.
  3. Advanced care planning: Advanced care planning involves discussing and documenting the care preferences of the person with Parkinson’s (PwP) in case they become unable to make decisions. This ensures their wishes are respected and provides clarity for carers. While doing one for your PwP, take the time to do your own as well. Explore advanced care planning resources here.
  4. Power of attorney or guardianship: Information on guardianship and power of attorney arrangements, where carers might be legally appointed to make decisions on behalf of someone who can no longer manage these themselves. For more details, visit Legal Powers for Carers.

Workplace support

  1. Carer-Inclusive Workplaces: Carer-inclusive workplaces are designed to support employees who provide unpaid care to family members or friends. These workplaces recognise the unique challenges faced by carers and implement policies to create a more supportive environment. The rights of carers in the workplace are recognised, providing carers with the necessary flexibility to balance work and caring duties
  2. Flexible Work Arrangements: Options such as remote work, flexible hours, and part-time roles help carers balance their responsibilities. Check the YOPX app and complete the Employment Experiences Checklist then email it to yourself, your HR representative or your manager to use as a guide to start FWA
  3. Carer Leave Policies: Paid or unpaid leave specifically for carers ensures they can attend to urgent caregiving needs without compromising their employment.
  4. Awareness and Training: Employers provide training to managers and staff to foster understanding and inclusivity for carers.

Young carer supports

  1. Young Carer Network: The Young Carer Network (YCN) is a nationally coordinated resource that supports young carers—individuals under 25 who provide unpaid care to family members or friends with disabilities, chronic conditions, or other needs.
  2. Young Carer Bursary: Financial assistance for 12 to 25 year olds by application. Funds are to help young carers continue their education while managing their caregiving responsibilities.
  3. Peer support: Opportunities for young carers to connect, share experiences, and access emotional support.
  4. Educational resources: Tips on balancing study and caregiving, understanding the NDIS, and accessing health services.

Financial support

  1. Carer payments and allowances: Carers may be eligible for financial support through Centrelink, including the Carer Payment and Carer Allowance. These payments provide financial assistance to those who dedicate significant time to caring for someone with a disability or medical condition. Find out more about financial support here.
  2. Tailored support packages: Tailored support packages are designed to meet the specific needs of carers, offering services and financial assistance to help manage their caring role. Learn about tailored support packages here.
  3. Planning for the future: Carers are encouraged to plan for long-term care needs, including financial arrangements and respite care options. Family meetings and consultations with healthcare professionals can help create a comprehensive care plan. Access future planning resources here.
  4. If you are a carer, Services Australia may be able to provide some financial assistance. Eligibility will depend on your situation and needs. Phone 132 717 or visit a Services Australia site near you. You may also be eligible for:

Resources

  • Carer Gateway. (2024). https://www.carergateway.gov.au/legal-financial-health-services/legal-matters
  • The Carer-Inclusive Workplace Initiative, led by Carers Australia, offers tools like self-assessments and e-learning modules to help organisations become more carer-friendly. Learn more here.
  • Employers can access resources and templates to implement carer-inclusive policies here.
  • Visit the Young Carers Network for information, support services, and bursary applications here.
  • Learn more about young carers and their unique challenges through Carers Australia here.
  • DSS services and support for carers can be found here.
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