How will my income be affected?

The way that cancer affects your income will depend on your situation. You may work on a casual, part-time or full-time basis, be self-employed, be looking for work, or work from home. Or you may be retired and living on a pension, income from investments or your superannuation payments.

Time off work

Cancer may mean a loss of income if you or your carer must take time off work. If you are working, ask your doctor how much time off you are likely to need. Many people who want to keep working during treatment can do so in some capacity.

Leave

Check with your employer about leave entitlements and flexible working arrangements. If you have a partner or carer, they can ask their employer to confirm their leave entitlements – they may be able to take carer’s leave or unpaid leave to look after you and/or your children, if you have any. If you are self-employed, you may need to find some other sources of income.

Insurance

If you have disability or income protection insurance, you may be able to receive a portion of your income while you are unable to work. You might have taken out a policy yourself, or it could have been included with your superannuation or provided by your employer.

Learn more about managing your working life after a cancer diagnosis.

My income was reduced when I cut back my working hours, but I was able to scrape by. I saved up some money during my paid sick leave.

Sarah

Podcast: Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis

Listen to more of our podcast for people affected by cancer