April 2005

Extra respite for Victorian carers

Families who care for some of the most vulnerable Victorians will be the recipients of a $350,000 funding boost.

Minister for Aged Care Gavin Jennings announced the funding boost during the official opening of the new Carers Victoria premises in Footscray.

‘The new funds will deliver 8,750 more respite hours to help sustain carers in their important role.

‘Victorian carers work tirelessly and selflessly to help relatives and loved ones lead decent lives.

‘This additional funding will help give carers more time out from their often demanding role.’

Mr Jennings said Government had also helped Carers Victoria move into its new premises with a $137,000 funding injection, including $95,000 for capital and moving costs and $42,000 for on-going rental assistance.

‘With the support of the Government, Carers Victoria is open for business working from Footscray for the whole of Victoria,’ he said.

Carers Victoria’s new Footscray premises include the relocation of Carer Links West.

Carers Victoria is the State’s peak body and voice for carers and carer issues.

Mr Jennings praised the work of Carers Victoria and Carer Links West in supporting Victorian carers.

‘This additional State funding recognises the important role that carers play in society and confirms our continuing partnership with Carers Victoria and Carer Links West.’

Carers provide volunteer care for family and friends who are frail or aged or who have other disabilities.

There are around 160,000 carers in Victoria who are supporting their relatives and loved ones.

Mr Jennings said the Government was investing a total of $118.5 million in 2004/05 to support carers and the people for whom they care.

‘We cannot do without carers but they need a break too.

‘Victoria’s volunteer carers will now have more access to much-needed breathing space,’ Mr Jennings said.