Carers across Victoria will have more support to thrive in their role while also focusing on their own wellbeing thanks to a boost from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence today announced 51 organisations will each receive up to $2 million to deliver respite activities through the second round of the Additional Respite for Carers initiative.
More than 700,000 unpaid carers in Victoria provide vital support to family or friends with disability, chronic or mental illness, age-related conditions or other care needs - and that number continues to grow.
More than $18 million will be shared between organisations from 2025-2027 to deliver in and out of home respite care, group activities and tailored supports that meet carers' individual needs and circumstances.
Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative will deliver culturally safe respite supports across regional Victoria including in Ballarat, Bendigo, Colac and Geelong.
Little Dreamers will support young carers through school holiday programs and other activities that help them connect with peers and focus on their wellbeing.
Wellsprings for Women will provide individual and group-based respite for women from migrant and refugee backgrounds across Melbourne's southeast, building safe and culturally appropriate spaces for rest and support.
The Labor Government's Additional Respite for Carers program is an investment in Victoria's carers, their loved ones and the organisations that support them - helping them to sustain their vital roles while caring for their own health and wellbeing.
This builds on more than $22 million every year provided through the Support for Carers program, supporting 60 providers to deliver respite and support services for Victoria's carers.
A full list of recipients is available at vic.gov.au/additional-respite-funding.
As stated by Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence
"We're proud to support unpaid carers with the time and space that they need to focus on their wellbeing."
"This investment means more carers will have access to the breaks they need - to focus on their own wellbeing so they can continue supporting their loved ones."
