Tuesday, 25 June 2019

The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to give Eastern Victoria Regions’ hard-working and dedicated carers the boost they need for well-earned respite.

Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan today announced a package of nearly $50 million to go towards extra respite, transport concessions and grants for initiatives that support carers.

One in five carers give up work to care for someone and young carers drop out of school at a higher rate than their peers, meaning carers tend to have lower incomes or chronic health conditions because they’re too busy caring for their loved ones to worry about their own health.

That is why the Labor Government is providing an additional 5,000 Victorian carers with 100,000 hours of respite each year. The big boost will increase the number of carers helped by the Government’s Support for Carers program by 60 per cent.

The Government is also providing $4 million to make sure more carers get the emotional support they need and can access the local services that they count on, with grants for grassroots and statewide carer support groups.

Many grants will go towards those who look after under-recognised groups such as young or LGBTQI carers.

The package also includes $3.5 million for half price public transport for Carer Card holders and free travel during Carers Week in October.

The package is part of the Labor Government’s Victorian Carers Strategy 2018-22 – our blueprint to ensure Victorian carers get the care that they deserve.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing

”Caring is incredibly rewarding work that can also be financially, physically and emotionally demanding – providing access to more respite, half price travel and more local support through this funding will make a significant difference for carers and their families.”

“Facilitating additional hours of respite will provide carers with a crucial opportunity to look after their own wellbeing and to have a well-earned break.”

“Our carers do a power of good in communities right across the region and their contribution deserves our respect, our thanks and our recognition.”