Help for carers
Many people devote much of their lives to caring for chronically ill people at home. These may be children with severe disabilities or older relatives unable to look after themselves because of physical or mental problems such as Alzheimer's disease.
Without the aid of a (usually unpaid) carer, most of these people would have to live in a nursing home or other place where help is available for the tasks of everyday living such as dressing, eating, washing, going to the toilet and so on.
Financial assistance is often available to those taking on the carer's role. In all states of Australia a tax-free benefit is payable under certain circumstances.
If you spend your life helping someone else, ask your doctor if you qualify for some help for yourself.
Last Reviewed: 21 May 2002
