If I can't work due to depression, can I get Centrelink help?

[bluebertone]

I have finally found a Doctor who has diagnosed me with major depression and anxiety and prescribed medication. My question is if I cant work or function to my work duties can I get finance help from a government funded department i.e Centrelink benefit and how much do I get and how do I apply and what is the process?

[Bethie]

Hi and welcome

Mpat likely you don't need to stress over work. In normal circumstances I hold down a full time job dispite chonic anxiety and depression providing I follow doctors orders on my meds and councillor.

Worse case Centrelink will start you on Newstart then possibly as in 2 years later look at disability (very hard to get)

Bare rate of Newstart can be found on the DHS website. It depends on if you are partnered or single.

See how you go, maybe ask your boss to put you casual ( it's easier if you find you can't work to get Newstart that way)

You'll entitled to rent assistance and a health care card.

Unfortunately Centrelink is closed till 3rd January. Another option is sickness benift because you are currently employed. Same rate as Newstart but is used to provide assistance when a person is not unemployed but is sick and requires time if work.