The state government is giving more unpaid carers across Victoria, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, the opportunity to take a break, with extra investment to support organisations to deliver respite for those who give so much to caring duties.
Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence announced the investment, which is part of a $38 million investment over four years – providing more of the state’s 700,000 unpaid carers with access to respite, particularly those in regional and rural Victoria.
The funding will increase opportunities for unpaid carers, especially in more isolated communities, to access respite and participate in activities that will support their health and wellbeing.
Fifty organisations have been funded for two years as part of the first round of the package, supported to deliver initiatives like in-home support for carers, day or group activities, overnight or emergency respite, and camps.
Group activities and retreats will be provided by Mpower Incorporated in Moyne, Glenelg, Corangamite, Southern Grampians, and Warrnambool to help carers reduce stress and build connections.
In Bendigo and Loddon, Different Journeyswill deliver respite activities for carers of people with autism, creating ways for carers to come together, empower and support each other, while Warracknabeal Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre, and the Centre for Participation have both been funded to support their vital work.
Some of the state’s peak bodies will also receive funding to continue their important work with unpaid carers in our community, including Carers Victoria, Uniting Vic. Tas and Brotherhood of St. Laurence.
Other successful recipients include carer support organisations, health services, hospices, aged care services, councils, and other community groups.
Minister Spence said access to respite is vital for the thousands of Victorians for whom caring for others is a round-the-clock job.
“We recognise how difficult it can be for those Victorians to access appropriate services in regional and rural areas, which is why we are providing funding to organisations right across the state,” she said.
