Community
5 December, 2025
Respite announced for unpaid carers
ADDITIONAL respite opportunities for 80 unpaid carers across the district will soon be possible thanks to the recent launch of the Recharge Carer Support Program.
Mpower recently announced the launch of the program, funded by the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), which will see an annual allocation of $80,000 over two years.
This initiative will provide respite opportunities for those not currently receiving support through an existing carer support program.
Unpaid carers are the backbone of our community, often providing care around the clock.
This program is designed to give them the chance to rest and recharge, knowing their loved ones are in safe hands.
Respite will be flexible and tailored to individual needs.
It may involve in-home or community-based support, overnight stays either at home or at Mpower House, or opportunities for care recipients to join existing Mpower activities and groups.
In appropriate cases, siblings can also be included in the respite arrangements.
The program offers a wide range of experiences - children and young people living with disability can participate in group activities facilitated by experienced practitioners, scheduled at times that suit carers, whether during the week, on weekends, or in the evenings.
Structured programs will make use of Mpower’s diverse facilities, including short-term accommodation and respite houses and therapy rooms, as well as community venues.
Individual support can be provided at home or at Mpower, and overnight or short-term accommodation is available for children with disabilities.
Eligibility is open to anyone in an unpaid caring role who needs a break, particularly carers of people with disabilities who do not have short-term respite funded in their NDIS plan.
Carers already registered with Mpower’s Carer Support Program are not eligible and should speak with their current support team about available options.
“Caring for others is a full-time responsibility, and carers deserve time to rest and recharge. This funding allows us to provide flexible, inclusive respite options tailored to carers’ needs,” Agatha Ganda, manager disability and accommodation services at Mpower said.
Funding for the Recharge Carer Support Program will continue until June 30, 2027, ensuring ongoing support for new carers across south west Victoria.
For enquiries or referrals email intake@mpower.org (with the subject line, recharge) or visit www.mpower.org.au.
