Carers have many information needs and also may require assistance with many practical issues. There are many resources that can be suggested.
Legal and financial resources for carers
- Advance care planning
Advance Care Planning Australia is an Australian model for advance care planning. Information is organised on a state basis.
- Power of Attorney
myagedcare.gov.au has a section on estate planning including durable power of attorney.
- Financial Assistance
The Australian Government Services Australia website provides information, benefits and payments for carers who meet eligibility criteria. Some carer payments continue short-term after the death of the care recipient, also some carer payments can be maintained during employment. Specialist staff are also available for counselling and assistance. Centerlink has recognised same-sex relationships from 1 July 2009.
- Funerals
Carers may have little experience planning and organsiing a funeral or even about notifying organisations of a person’s death.
Services Australia has useful information on what to do and who to contact after a death. Recent changes in several Australian states’ legislations aim to protect consumers at the vulnerable time of arranging a funeral. The New South Wales Office of Fair Trading has produced a resource to guide those people who are
arranging and paying for a funeral.
Information and support for carers
- For Patients, Carers and Families
This section within CareSearch provides an extensive set of pages with information and links to other organisations and to further resources for carers.
- Carers Australia
Carers Australia and the network of carers associations in each state and territory offer a range of resources and supports for carers.
- The Australian Government has a Commonwealth Home Support Programme that includes respite
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Research and literature resources on carers and caregiving
Last updated 15 May 2020