A parent/carer with or beyond cancer

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When a parent or carer is diagnosed with cancer, the impact reaches every part of family life. Balancing treatment, recovery, work, and caring responsibilities can feel overwhelming, but know that support is available. This page brings together cancer support services and practical resources designed to help parents and carers, as well as their loved ones, through this challenging time.

Here you’ll find tailored resources for parents and carers, including:

  • Advice for coping with the emotions that cancer can bring.
  • Guidance for dealing with cancer in the family, including support for children. when a parent is unwell and how to communicate about cancer with children.
  • Practical information on treatment, recovery, and financial help for families impacted by cancer.
  • Access to free resources and cancer support services.

Our resources are designed to support parents and carers through every stage of cancer, offering practical advice and ways to connect with others who understand. If you need extra guidance, you can view our services that offer tailored support for parents, carers, children, and loved ones.

A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Practical, emotional and financial support resources for cancer patients and families in Australia, including charities, community services and online tools.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Guidance for one of the most difficult conversations parents face. Tips on honesty, age-appropriate explanations, and helping children cope with your diagnosis.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Ways to maintain family bonds when treatment disrupts routines. Connection strategies for during hospital stays and after returning home.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Seven practical strategies for discussing cancer with children. Resources, conversation starters, and support tools for navigating these tough talks.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Guidance for one of the most difficult conversations parents face. Tips on honesty, age-appropriate explanations, and helping children cope with your diagnosis.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Essential self-care for parents with cancer. Practical strategies for managing your physical and mental health while caring for your family.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Coping strategies for partners dealing with fear and uncertainty. Tips on self-care, getting support, and managing anxiety about the future.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Help responding to common questions children ask about cancer. Age-appropriate answers and trusted resources to support honest conversations.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Understanding Centrelink support for families affected by cancer. Guidance on payments, claims process, and getting help with applications.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Support for parents managing overwhelming feelings during their child’s treatment. Validation, coping strategies, and connections to professional help.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Managing anxiety about cancer returning after treatment ends. Strategies for coping with fear, supporting each other, and moving forward together.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | How cancer impacts family relationships and what families experience emotionally. Access to counselling and support for navigating these challenges together.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Tips for talking openly with your family about your diagnosis. Guidance on preparing children for treatment, answering questions, and coordinating help.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Step-by-step advice on accessing Centrelink benefits for people with cancer and carers. Information on payments, your eligibility, and application tips.
A parent/carer with or beyond cancer | Practical advice on returning to work during or after treatment. Tips on managing energy, knowing your rights, and finding new job opportunities.