- Published:
- Thursday 5 February 2015
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley and Melton MP Don Nardella have fought successfully to save the Melbacc respite facility, which elderly parents caring for adult children with a disability rely on.
Melton City Council recently decided it could no longer afford to operate the centre, despite the fact that alternative facilities were too far away for most of the affected families, many of whom are too old to drive.
Mr Foley is pleased to announce that the facility will continue its operations. The Andrews Labor Government is negotiating with Melton Council for an agreement to lease the building.
The Department of Health and Human Services will work hard to ensure minimal disruption to service delivery, but there may be a few interim weeks where Melbacc’s services are unavailable.
An Expression of Interest process will be completed and the centre will re-open as soon as a new provider can be found.
When the Abbott Federal Government froze the Federal Financial Assistance grants, it put Melbacc and many other services under threat.
The Municipal Association of Victoria estimated the funding freeze ripped $139 million from councils statewide over three years.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Disability & Ageing, Martin Foley:
“The Andrews Labor Government is putting people first, but Tony Abbott’s budget cuts are hurting vulnerable families.”
Quotes attributable to Don Nardella, Member for Melton:
“We fought hard to save this important service and welcome the Labor Government’s help in keeping the centre operating.”
“Elderly carers who have given their lives to looking after family members with disabilities deserve all our support.”