Report reveals heavy financial and legal burden of cancer for Australians
A new study finds that Australian cancer patients and their carers face substantial out-of-pocket costs and income loss, prompting calls for stronger workplace protections and superannuation reforms.
A report by the McCabe Centre for Law and Cancer, funded by Cancer Council Victoria, documents extensive financial and legal challenges faced by cancer patients and their carers in Victoria. Survey respondents, including breast-cancer survivor Neroli Padfield, described out-of-pocket expenses exceeding $10,000 for specialist visits, medication, travel and accommodation, even with private health cover. Many also lost income during treatment, and carers reported similar burdens.
The study proposes nine reform areas, notably stronger, enforceable workplace rights, mandatory cancer-specific training for managers, and practical superannuation guidance. Researchers warn that as cancer incidence rises and survivorship improves, these systemic issues will affect more Australians. Government agencies point to existing support programs, but advocates argue they are insufficient without broader policy changes.
Why it matters
Cancer's growing financial toll threatens the wellbeing of patients, families and the broader economy.
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