Elle* and her husband Paul* became full-time carers to four children following the tragic and unexpected death of a family member in a house fire. Within just a few days, their household grew from four people to eight, as they assumed responsibility for children aged 13, 11, 8 and 4, while another sibling with significant injuries was cared for elsewhere. The children had experienced considerable trauma, including abuse, neglect, abandonment and the recent loss of their primary caregiver. Several of the children also live with additional support needs, including ADHD, autism and mental health challenges. The children and their mother identify as First Nations.
The sudden change had a significant impact on the family. Elle and Paul stopped working to manage their caring responsibilities and became reliant on Centrelink payments as their sole income. At the same time, they were supporting children with complex emotional, behavioural and practical needs. Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, they feared they would be unable to continue caring for the children without support.
The family sought help through financial counselling and other services as they faced financial hardship, rising living costs, medical expenses, unsuitable housing and declining wellbeing. Uniting’s financial counsellor worked with Elle and Paul to assess their finances, develop a budget and identify available grants, concessions and entitlements. Support was provided to access Centrelink payments, including carer-related, youth and crisis payments, and referrals were made to emergency relief services for food, clothing and other essentials.
The financial counsellor also provided advocacy and practical assistance with outstanding fines, utility bills, rent arrears, housing issues, concessions and utility relief grants. Recognising the family’s broader needs, referrals were made to wrap around supports, including Carer Gateway.
Through collaboration across multiple agencies, the family secured more suitable housing, funding for a larger vehicle and financial assistance to support the costs of their expanded household. These outcomes reduced immediate pressures and helped create a more stable environment for the children.
While the family continues to face financial challenges associated with caring for a large household on a limited income, they are now connected to a broad network of programs and services. Uniting’s financial counselling helped stabilise their situation, improve access to financial assistance and strengthen their ability to manage changing circumstances. Elle expressed deep gratitude for the support they received and the positive difference it made to her family’s wellbeing during an incredibly difficult time.
*Name and image changed for privacy reasons.
