Looking after your finances

With so much on your mind, it’s easy to forget that being a carer can sometimes set you back financially. Here are some money tips to help.

Consider the reality of earning less

You may need to cut back on your hours—or stop work completely. If this happens, you'll need to plan for less money in your pocket.

If you need to reduce your hours, speak to your employer. Remember, under the National Employment Standards, you have the right to a flexible working arrangement after 12 months in your job.

This may also impact your super, as you won’t be earning as much. Think about making your own super contributions to continue growing your retirement savings.

Government payments explained

Make sure you get all the support you need:

Get help with your payments

If you’re having trouble keeping on top of payments, talk to your lender.

If you’re with NAB:

Stay on top of your finances

Create plans for your debts, expenses and goals to help improve your financial situation:

Stay connected and take breaks

Chat to friends and family in person, or on FaceTime, Skype and WhatsApp. You may also find a carer support group, opens in new window in your area to talk to others in similar situations.

Make time to connect with others and enjoy regular ‘me time’. Learn how respite care works and find a respite service near you, opens in new window to schedule breaks from your caring duties.

Think about your mental health

Apps like Headspace, opens in new window and Smiling Mind, opens in new window can help you calm your mind by guiding you through a few minutes of meditation.

Strategies for managing stress, opens in new window and coping with anger, frustration and guilt can also help you stay committed.

Use support services

Take advantage of these carer support services:

Staying in shape

Caring can sometimes be hard work – both mentally and physically. To keep your body in shape, see:

Plan for the future

Help your loved one prepare for their future by putting necessary steps in place. Also think about:

Glossary

Super

Super is a regular payment made into a super fund by an employee towards a future pension. For most people, your employer must pay an amount equal to 9.5% of your salary into your super fund account. Your super savings can be self-managed, or controlled by the superannuation fund of your choice.

Call NAB Assist on 1800 701 599. We're available Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8:00pm (AEST/AEDT) or Saturday, 9:00am to 1:00pm (AEST/AEDT) or visit your nearest NAB Branch. 

Other life moments

Other resources and support

Get in touch

If you're experiencing a change in your circumstances, require financial hardship assistance, or think you might need help in the future, please contact us.

Request financial hardship assistance

If you’re having trouble making your repayments, you can request assistance.

Call NAB Assist Team

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8:00pm (AEST/AEDT)
Saturday, 9:00am to 1:00pm (AEST/AEDT)

1800 701 599

Terms and Conditions

The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, NAB recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. NAB recommends that you seek independent legal, financial and taxation advice before acting on any information in this article.

Target Market Determinations for these products are available at nab.com.au/TMD.