Aims
Cancer’s impact extends beyond diagnosis and treatment, frequently creating legal and financial challenges that affect wellbeing, access to care and quality of life. Despite increasing recognition of the social determinants of health, these needs are not consistently addressed within cancer services. This study examined unmet legal and financial need among Victorians affected by cancer and identified opportunities for integrated service responses.
Methods
A mixed-methods study was conducted between 2025-2026. Data included an online survey of 207 participants (102 people with cancer and 105 carers) and semi-structured interviews with 16 participants, including people with lived experience, carers and professionals. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed thematically.
Results
Legal and financial challenges were common, often interconnected and more pronounced for those already experiencing disadvantage. Forty-one percent of people with cancer and 67% of carers reported experiencing legal issues, yet most had not accessed legal support. Seventy-nine percent of people with cancer and 69% of carers who reported legal issues had not seen a lawyer. Financial hardship was widespread with out-of-pocket costs universal and more than 95% reporting emotional impacts associated with financial strain. Interview participants described cumulative impacts arising from employment, insurance, superannuation and social security challenges. Many reported uncertainty and delayed access to assistance. Integrated models of legal and financial support, including health justice partnerships, were identified as valuable models for earlier identification of need, improved access to entitlements and reduced administrative burden.
Conclusions
Legal and financial challenges are a common yet overlooked part of the cancer experience. Substantial unmet need and assistance barriers highlight gaps in current service responses for people with cancer and their carers. Integrating legal and financial support within health services offers an opportunity to strengthen person-centred care and improve equity.