Tandem CEO Marie Piu welcomed the significant investment in mental health and carer supports in the 2021 Victorian Budget.
Marie stated that “this State Budget allocates a record $3.8 billion over four years to rebuild the mental health and wellbeing system. It includes $93 million in dedicated support for families & carers in mental health, including funding for eight family and carer-led centres, an increase to the Carer Support Fund and $23 million for young people and children caring for a family member.”
Tandem Board Chair, Dr Melissa Petrakis, said that “this budget includes recognition changes required to acknowledge, support and practically assist mental health families and carers.”
“Funding allocation to begin to achieve this is present in investment in eight family and carer-led centres across the state, funding much-needed short-term respite, peer support groups, enhanced perinatal health and expanded support for the Families where a Parent has a Mental Illness (FaPMI) program,” Dr Petrakis said.
The statewide focus - and intent that a family will have comparable services available locally wherever they live in our state - is important to hear recognised with funding allocated to this commitment.”
Tandem applauds the investment in more mental health services closer to where people live, in schools and for parents and young people, and to support and grow the mental health workforce. We’re also pleased to see $40.7 million to expand and support the lived experience workforce.
CEO Marie Piu said “Tandem is proud to be the trusted voice of family and friends in mental health in Victoria. As the Victorian peak body with a sole focus on the needs and interests of family and friends in mental health, Tandem is committed to working closely with the State Government throughout the implementation of these initiatives to ensure this critical voice is kept in clear focus.”
