By Molly Magennis
The Andrews Government has announced it will be investing $16.8 million to help Victorian mental health carers.
Minister for Mental Health James Merlino made the announcement on Thursday, with the funding set to help Victorian carers either financially or respite from their caring roles.
The support will include $8.8 million for the Mental Health Carer Support Fund, which will help more carers pay for expenses related to their caring role as well as supporting their own health, something that is often neglected. It will allow carers to seek relief from their caring responsibilities, pay food and bills for their own family, or seek support for themselves through counselling.
Victoria’s peak body for mental health carers, families and supporters, Tandem , will continue to be funded to administer the Carer Support Fund on behalf of the Government.
Mr. Merlino said mental health carers are often the quiet heroes in the community.
“It’s only right that we give back to them, whether that’s time for themselves or extra support to put food on the table for their own families,” he said.
“This investment will make sure Tandem can continue its invaluable work supporting and advocating for those who care for people with mental health concerns.”
