Carer funding at risk in State Budget

16 May 2023

VMCH fears for the future of the vulnerable people it supports if funding is cut in the upcoming 2023/24 Victorian State Budget.

As the largest provider of carer respite in Victoria, VMCH supports 975 unpaid carers of loved ones living with dementia, disability, mental health and age-related issues.

The Victorian Government committed to support unpaid carers with $42m worth of additional care respite over four years in its 2019-20 State Budget. And while the critical need for this funding remains, the scheme is due to conclude on 30 June 2023. VMCH is backing a Carer’s Victoria pre-budget submission to seek funding on a recurrent basis.

There is no commitment from the government to continue this annual funding, which is extremely worrying for our carers,” says VMCH Chief Operating Officer David Williamson.

“Without this funding, we would be forced to exit carers from the program, which would be absolutely devastating. We see first-hand every day the difference this support makes to their lives, and we fear for their wellbeing should this funding be cut.”

Mr Williamson says providing carers with opportunities to have a much-needed break from their caring roles with social activities, events and other supports is crucial to their wellbeing, and their ability to continue their caring role.

Their role is also crucial to the economy, with a 2020 report by Deloitte Access Economics finding the work of unpaid carers in Australia equates to almost $78 billion a year.

VMCH Chief Operating Officer, David Williamson

Amanda Pockett and her husband Nick (pictured in top main image) care for their son Harvey, aged 26, who has an acquired brain injury, complex mental health issues, and struggles with substance abuse.

Amanda says VMCH provides her family with “an outlet to step away from the chaos”.

“COVID was a very tricky time for us. Harvey experiences paranoia, psychotic episodes, behavioral management and emotional dysregulation, and regularly disappears for days. The online activities VMCH offered allowed us to explore new things. I’ve even been able to continue painting as a regular activity since that art class, and my husband took part in a cooking class, which he unexpectedly really enjoyed.”

Amanda, who also works as a carer consultant, says carers are often reluctant to take time for themselves, much less spend funds to do it.

Why would I pay for myself to go out and have good time while someone who I love and care for in my life is suffering so much? Whereas if it’s offered to me as a service, I don’t feel so guilty about it. I’ve learned the hard way over the years. You can fight as many fires as you want, but unless you fill your own cup, then you can’t give to others who need you. When you do those self-care activities, your loved ones feel the change in you, and that alone helps to heal them.”

For Maria, who cares for her husband who lives with severe depression, VMCH’s carer support is a lifeline to connect with others.

“I’ve been to social gatherings and met some wonderful ladies with similar experiences. You feel like you can connect and feel comfortable opening up. You go home and think, ‘I’m not the only one’.”

But it’s the simple knowledge that someone who cares is just a phone call away is what makes all the difference for Maria.

The most important thing is I know I have someone to turn to, so I don’t feel lost and alone. Without carer support it would be a very sad life for me.”

Mr Williamson implored the government to recognise the vital role unpaid carers play in the lives of so many in its upcoming State Budget.

“The massive role carers play within our communities should not be devalued. How are organisations meant to sustainably care for carers if we’re constantly at risk of having funding cuts?”

The 2023/24 Victorian State Budget will be delivered on Tuesday 23 May 2023.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We here at VMCH respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and we would like to take a moment to honour the fact that we live on the lands of the oldest civilisation in the world. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.