A serious illness often has financial consequences. While palliative care costs are generally covered by either Medicare or private health insurance, there are a lot of other financial matters that may need to be considered, including what happens after you or a loved one will have passed away.
Cost of Care & Financial Resources
Palliative care is generally covered, but additional services, therapies and equipment may not be so it's good to always ask if there's any cost involved.
If you have a carer, they may be eligible for a carer payment.
You may qualify for a certain benefit from Centrelink, such as a sickness allowance, a disability support pension or a concession card.
More information can be found via:
Australian Government Carer Gateway - 1800 422 737
Australian Department of Human Services (Centrelink) - 132 717
Financial advice
Proper financial advice can provide great peace of mind. When engaging a financial adviser, make sure they are licenced by looking them up on the ASIC website (see below). A licenced financial planner may to be to help with advice on Centrelink benefits, superannuation, insurances, investments and estate planning.
More information can be found via:
ASIC Moneysmart - dealing with illness
ASIC Moneysmart - check a financial adviser
ASIC Moneysmart - losing your partner
Centrelink Financial Information Service - 132 000
Financial Counselling Australia - 1800 007 007
Association of Financial Advisers
Financial Planning Association of Australia
