I am delighted that older people and people with a disability across the Mornington Peninsula, Koo Wee Rup and Bass Coast will receive extra support to stay in their own homes thanks to $174,000 in combined funding from the Commonwealth and Victorian governments.
This funding will help expand existing services or create new ones in identified priority areas of need across the state to allow people to stay in their own homes for longer and remain connected to their communities.
Local groups to receive funding under the program include:
• Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Service – $37,792
• Bass Valley Community Group – $20,575
• Mornington Peninsula Shire Council – $80, 125
• Southern Peninsula Community care – $35,650
Groups received funding for minor capital works as well as transitional funding totalling more than $174,000 across the electorate.
The funding is part of a $703 million joint investment between the Australian and Victorian governments in the Home and Community Care (HACC) program across the state this financial year.
The Home and Community Care program is a vital service that provides support for our most vulnerable residents.
Older Australians deserve to have the support they need to lead active, healthy lives and to continue to stay in their own homes where possible.
The Home and Community Care program provides critical services that help older people and people with a disability stay independent for longer by providing care where people prefer to receive it – in their own homes and communities.
An additional $11.6 million in funding has been provided for new services in Victoria, which will deliver an extra 200,000 hours of care and support in the home.
This includes nursing and allied health care, personal care, domestic assistance, meals and social support, as well as respite services for carers, without which many people wouldn’t be able to remain living independently.
It is essential that our seniors and community members with a disability are kept safe and healthy while still remaining connected to their communities with as much independence as possible.
The HACC Program provides support to more than 300,000 older Victorians, younger people with a disability and their carers. This additional funding will provide vital support for many older Australians and younger people with disability, allowing them to maintain their independence and connection to their local community.