Get involved and help Queenslanders living with cancer by volunteering. Volunteers are the heart of our organisation. Join us to make a greater impact and connect with like-minded people.
Every contribution helps support those living with cancer. Whether a one-off donation or monthly gift, your support ensures funding stability for long-term goals and future generations.
Leave a legacy by including a gift in your Will, starting a tribute page for a loved one, or funding a research grant for early-career cancer researchers driving clinical innovations.
Organise a fundraising event in your community, either as a team or an individual. You can join one of our existing fundraising events or you might like to come up with your own way.
When organisations work together, we can have a greater impact for every Queenslander going through cancer and help amplify our message for all Australians.
However you get involved, you’re making a direct impact on the lives of Queenslanders affected by cancer. See the results of what we’ve all achieved.
Cancer impacts many areas of life outside of health, including your finances. You may find yourself navigating new financial challenges, such as reduced income, increased medical or support costs, or the need to adjust your financial plans. If you’re unsure how to budget, or manage bills or repayments, we offer practical advice and resources plus where to access cancer financial support.
Our team is here to listen and support you.
There are many different types of costs that can add up during cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. These will vary depending on cancer type, stage and treatment options, and whether you have treatment as a public or private patient.
The out-of-pocket cost of cancer treatment in Australia can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $10,000. These may include:
To avoid unexpected costs during cancer diagnosis and treatment, it’s important to ask questions at every stage. You have the right to know the costs upfront, and healthcare providers are required to discuss potential out-of-pocket expenses with you – this is called informed financial consent.
Getting estimates for the cost of cancer treatment in Australia will allow you to explore ways to reduce costs or access financial help for cancer patients. Before choosing between private or public treatment, ask your doctor, hospital, or service provider about any fees you may need to pay.
For more information, see our Cancer care and your finances booklet.
A gap payment is the difference between what a doctor charges you and how much Medicare, or your health fund will give back to you. If you have private health insurance, contact your health fund to check that your treatment in hospital is covered and to ask about your gap cover. Choosing to use doctors and hospitals that take part in your health insurer’s medical gap scheme can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Cancer’s impact on your income will vary depending on your circumstances. You might work casually, part-time, or full-time, be self-employed, seeking work, or working from home. Alternatively, you may retire, relying on a pension, investment income, or superannuation payments. To decide if you will need financial support, consider:
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.
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.
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.
The financial impact of cancer varies for each person and depends on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, treatment options, and your financial situation before diagnosis. Your doctor may suggest ways to reduce costs, including accessing treatment as a public patient. Your doctor can also connect you with resources for additional support who can talk you through the available financial help for cancer patients. In some cases, if no other options are available, you may be able to access your superannuation early to help cover treatment costs.
A key step in managing your finances is assessing your situation thoroughly. Creating a budget can help you understand your income, track your expenses, and identify how much money you need to cover your costs.
If you’re facing financial hardship, take action early to address the situation. Delaying can make debts more stressful. Reach out to your creditors, explain your diagnosis and financial challenges and you may find many are willing to work with you to find a solution.
Sorting out financial issues can strain your wellbeing and your relationships. Talking to a trusted family member or a professional adviser about your finances may help you clarify your situation and find solutions or cancer financial support.
When cancer impacts your finances, seeking advice from a qualified professional can also help. Whether you consult a financial counsellor or financial adviser will depend on your specific situation and needs. Both will be able to provide or advise on the best financial assistance for people with cancer.
If you are struggling financially, talk to your doctor. They may suggest ways to reduce your treatment costs, or they might be able to see you as a public patient. In addition, your doctor can refer you to a social worker or welfare officer for more information on financial assistance for cancer patients. In some cases, if you have no other way to pay for treatment, you may be able to access your superannuation early. You don’t have to go through cancer alone. Call our Cancer support line 13 11 20 for advice on financial help for cancer patients.
You should usually be able to buy insurance for things that are not related to your cancer (like travel insurance for lost luggage). If you are travelling to countries where Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement, you can get free emergency medical treatment. Show the hospital your valid Medicare card and passport and tell them that you want to be treated under the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia.
You should be able to buy insurance for things that are not related to your cancer (like life insurance for accidental death). In addition, you may still be able to buy income protection or life insurance after a cancer diagnosis. Insurers may assess applications based on factors like cancer type, stage, treatment, and remission duration. Additionally, premiums might be higher, or policies may include exclusions related to cancer. The law says you must tell the insurer anything that may be relevant to your policy, and this includes current and previous health conditions. Usually, you would disclose your cancer diagnosis on the policy application form or when you need to renew your policy, or if you change your level of cover on an existing policy.
The costs associated with cancer screening vary depending on the type of screening and whether you access services through public programs or private providers. You can talk to your doctor, social worker or cancer nurse about these costs. You can also call Cancer Council Queensland on 13 11 20.
