Services and information

Grief Line offers support to people who are experiencing grief as a consequence of a significant loss in their lives. Telephone (03) 9596 7799.

Centrelink can provide information on Commonwealth Government disability, sickness and carers payments. Telephone 13 27 17.

The Cancer Council Victoria’s Welfare Grants Program and No Interest Loan Scheme can provide financial assistance for people with cancer. Telephone 13 11 20.

The Australian Funeral Directors Association can provide a listing of funeral directors and estimates of funeral costs. Telephone (03) 9859 9571.

Local councils provide a range of community and in-home services, including foster care for children, meals on wheels, housekeepers and respite care. Telephone your council (listed by council name in the White Pages).

See palliative care.

The Cancer Information and Support Service is a service for people with cancer and their carers, friends and relatives. Telephone 13 11 20.

The Carers Advice Line provides information and support for people caring for people with illness and disability. Telephone 1800 242 636.

Care Ring can provide information, counselling and referral for people with health- and family-related problems. Telephone 13 61 69, 24 hours, 7 days.

Lifeline provides information, counselling and referral for people with personal problems. Telephone 13 11 14, 24 hours, 7 days.

See your solicitor.

If you do not have a solicitor contact the Law Institute of Victoria’s Legal Referral Service. Telephone (03) 9607 9550.

A course for people with cancer and their families and friends, held at hospitals and community organisations throughout Victoria. Ask your hospital’s social worker for details or contact the Cancer Information and Support Service on 13 11 20.

The Royal District Nursing Service provides care to people with terminal illness in their own home and advice and support for family and carers. Telephone (03) 9536 5222.

Palliative Care Victoria provides information about palliative care and hospice facilities and services. Telephone (03) 9662 9644.

Your local council can tell you about services available in your area. Telephone your council (listed by council name in the White Pages). Your local palliative care group or hospital social worker will also be able to advise you.

For information, support and advice, contact your hospital and ask for the social worker or patient services unit. Your local community health centre may also have a social worker on staff, or be able to refer you to a social work service. Pastoral care workers are able to discuss practical and spiritual concerns (from all religious and irreligious viewpoints). Contact your hospital, hospice or palliative care service.

The Cancer Information and Support Service can refer you to a cancer support group in your area. Telephone 13 11 20.

DoCare (see the White Pages for the service in your region) and the Australian Red Cross Society (03) 9685 9999 can organise home visitors. Other charitable organisations may be able to help, as may a local cancer support group. For information, telephone 13 11 20.