Carer Adjustment Payment is a one-off payment to help families with the increased costs following an illness or disability involving a child aged less than seven years.
Carer payments are available if you are unable to work in substantial paid employment or require supplementary allowance due to the provision of daily care to someone with a disability. You can also find information about Carer allowances here.
Parents and immediate family wanting to plan for the future care and accommodation needs of a person with a severe disability can be assisted through a Special Disability Trust.
Thoughts, ideas and experiences from carers can be found here.
Carers Australia is the peak national body representing the nation’s Carers. They take a leadership role and respond to carers’ needs and those of the people they care for, being mindful of their financial challenges and in many cases, lack of social inclusion.
State and Territory associations are part of the national network and advocate change and action for carers:
- South Australia
- New South Wales
- Queensland
- Northern Territory
- Victoria
- Tasmania
- Western Australia
- Australian Capital Territory
Parents may qualify for the Carers Allowance and individuals with FOP may qualify for a Health Care Card. Your local doctor will be able to assist you with the application forms for both. You can find out more here and here.
A Companion Card makes going to events like the football, festivals, concerts, shows and movies more affordable for people with a disability who rely on help from a carer. Having a Companion Card means you receive two tickets for the price of one at participating venues. Simply show your card when you buy your ticket and you will receive a ‘companion’ ticket, at no charge, for your companion or carer. This ticket is also exempt from booking fees and the cost of the ticket is covered by the venue. It is valid on public transport too. The card is issued in the name of the person with the disability and is valid for 5 years. It means the cardholder is free to go to different places with different people, as their companions may be friends, family, volunteers or paid carers.
The National Card Scheme is comprised of Companion Card programs run by each State and Territory which issue the Companion Card.