May 2005

Disadvantaged Victorians receive a funding boost

An extra $693,000 for programs will help disadvantaged Victorians access support services.

Minister for Aged Care Gavin Jennings said the new funding would help link older people in public housing and those with a disability to appropriate health, welfare and housing services.

‘The Government will provide up to $518,000 to open Older Persons High Rise Support Program services at two towers in King St, Prahran,’ Mr Jennings said.

‘This will also see the support program expanded at eight more public high rise estates in Albert Park, St Kilda, Footscray, Williamstown, Kensington, Flemington, Carlton and Union Street, Prahran.

Mr Jennings said the Older Persons High Rise Support Program helped frail older and disabled tenants in public high rise buildings access services that help them maintain their independence.

‘The program also helps build a sense of community and reduces social isolation among this particularly disadvantaged group of high rise residents.

Mr Jennings also announced a further $175,000 to expand the Community Connections Program to meet unmet demand in Melbourne’s outer east.

‘This program provides extra support to vulnerable people through increased outreach services that help identify isolated seniors and people with disabilities to connect them with health and welfare programs.

‘This program is for homeless or insecurely-housed people and seniors with complex needs to improve their access to health and housing services.

‘Community Connections helped 1,150 clients—including disadvantaged seniors and people with disabilities—in just six months last year.

‘These two statewide programs share $4.66 million a year through the Department of Human Services as part of the government’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of disadvantaged Victorians.’