- Published:
- Thursday 16 December 2021
The Andrews Labor Government is providing further support to help people with complex needs access COVID-19 vaccines.
Minister for Housing Richard Wynne and Minister for Health Martin Foley today announced 84 organisations will share in $11.3 million to deliver targeted case management for children, families and diverse communities that need to access practical support and further information about COVID-19 vaccines.
Funding will provide more case management capacity for organisations working with Victorians with complex needs, such as victim survivors of family violence, people facing housing instability, and children in foster and kinship care.
Activities funded by the program include extra support and training for case managers, as well as practical measures that reduce barriers to vaccination, such as assisting social and public housing residents to book vaccinations and attend pop-up vaccinations sites and helping people accessing family violence services get vaccinations.
The funding will help priority groups get the protection of COVID-19 vaccination to keep them, their loved ones and the community safe.
All activities funded through the program enhance existing initiatives designed to ensure all Victorians have access to COVID-19 vaccines, including third dose boosters.
COVID-19 vaccines have also been administered through Victoria’s Homeless in Hotels program, while mobile vaccination services will be stationed at homeless shelters and food halls to further increase vaccination rates among people facing disadvantage.
All Victorians who are eligible for a booster five months after their second shot are urged to book an appointment as soon as possible – especially those at higher risk of contracting the virus, such as healthcare workers.
Ensuring children are protected from coronavirus is also vital, and parents are encouraged to get their kids vaccinated when the rollout for five to 11-year-olds begins on 10 January 2022.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing Richard Wynne
“We are working with communities with complex needs to ensure they’re getting the support they need to overcome vaccine hesitancy and other barriers.”
“By ensuring all Victorians have access to vaccines, we’re protecting the community from COVID-19 and keeping people safe.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Martin Foley
“I encourage all Victorians who are eligible for booster shots to book an appointment as soon as possible. This will keep the Christmas and holiday period one where we can safely meet with families and friends - and enjoy the holidays while helping stop the spread of the virus.”