The Allan Labor Government is backing Victoria's carers this National Carers Week helping them stay connected and supported in their communities.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence today announced 34 organisations will share in $760,000 from this year's Connecting Carers in their Community grants program.
Delivered by Carers Victoria and Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), the grants will help local and culturally specific organisations deliver tailored support, reduce social isolation and improve carer wellbeing.
Highlights of this year's grants include:
- Cultivating Carers in West Warrnambool, expanding their kitchen-garden workshops to include self-care, nutrition, cooking and a local food swap to encourage peer connection.
- A dementia support network in Kyabram, extending peer support across Kyabram, Nagambie, Echuca-Moama, Shepparton and Mooroopna.
- First Nations organisations including Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative, Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative, Moogji Aboriginal Council, Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative, and Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative, delivering culturally safe and tailored carer supports in their communities.
These grants support the newly released Victorian Carer Strategy 2025-2035 which sets out a plan to strengthen carer health, opportunities and wellbeing over the next decade.
During National Carers Week, Victorian Carer Card holders can travel for free on public transport across the state, helping remove travel costs as a barrier to attend events, access services and stay connected.
National Carers Week runs from 12-18 October and recognises the essential role carers play right across Victoria.
As stated by Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence
"No one should feel alone as a carer - we're helping to create local connections where they're needed most."
"These grants give carers the chance to take a break, refresh and recharge."
"Free public transport during National Carers Week makes it easier for carers to get involved in activities right across Victoria."
As stated by Carers Victoria CEO Judith Abbott
"Grants like these helps carers find common ground, share their carer journey, and know they are appreciated for the amazing work they do."
As stated by Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation CEO Dr. Jill Gallagher AO
"Valuing unpaid carers is about valuing our culture, our families and our future. Carers are the backbone of our communities and these grants will provide much needed support to carers as the continue their duties."
