Grant to support macedon ranges carers

Carers living in the Macedon Ranges will have more opportunities to be healthy, active and well thanks to a $1 million package of grants from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, today announced that PS My Family Matters received a grant of $13,500 to improve the health and wellbeing of carers in the Macedon Ranges.

The grant will help PS My Family Matters to run their peer social support groups, Coffe4Carers and Pizza4Carers, which enable carers to meet and socialise with other carers. The grant will also support the employment of a facilitator and coordinator.

Across the state 94 community organisations and groups are receiving grants to support carers to be physically and mentally healthy, socially active and better connected with other carers, support programs and resources.

The new Supporting Carers Locally Grants Program will focus on support for carers in regional areas, as well as under-recognised groups such as young carers.

More than 736,600 Victorian carers give their time and effort to look after a family member or friend who needs them. It can be difficult for carers to access the services they need to look after themselves and make sure they’re supported in their care role.

The Labor Government is investing almost $50 million to help carers with extra respite, transport concessions and grants to support local initiatives.

Supporting the health and wellbeing of carers is a key priority of the Victorian carer strategy 2018–22 – the first whole-of-government strategy recognising carers.

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
"Often the best source of information and support for carers is other carers. These grants will give them greater emotional support and connect them with other people dealing with the same challenges."

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"PS My Family Matters does vital work for carers in our community, and this funding will help make sure carers in the Macedon Ranges get the support they need and have asked for."

Quote attributable to PS My Family Matters President, Tamara Wilson
"This grant is invaluable to helping us offer a service in the Macedon Ranges to the numerous carers that our organisation has come into contact with."