Over 90 per cent of Australians living with cancer rely on informal carers (family or friends) who provide critical support during their illness, treatment, and sometimes end-of-life care.
These unsung heroes deliver practical, emotional, legal, and financial aid, yet they receive no compensation, leading to significant emotional and financial strain.
“Caring is a job. It’s just, you’re not paid for it,” said Jacinta, whose husband Tony was diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2009.
Jacinta tried juggling caregiving with her job, but soon realised she needed time off. She was fortunate her employer granted eight weeks of paid leave so she could focus on Tony’s care.
“If I didn’t have that, we would have lost our house,” she reflected.
Cancer carers like Jacinta dedicate 17- 40 hours weekly to supporting loved ones. Yet their essential role often goes unrecognised, along with their rights. Cancer Council Victoria and the McCabe Centre for Law & Cancer have worked to amplify the voices of carers, contributing to an Australian Parliamentary report that frames unpaid care as a human rights issue.
“We are striving to make the unseen seen at the highest levels,” said Tarishi Desai from the McCabe Centre.
Jacinta emphasises the need for better recognition. “The focus is on the patient, but carers are incredibly important. It should be a given to receive the leave and support needed.”
When Tony was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2023, Jacinta again took on the carer role – drawing on the resilience and lessons she had learned before.
Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every cancer diagnosis, there’s often a carer whose love and dedication carry them through the toughest times.
<<- Back to 2024 Annual Review