The Victorian Government is ensuring all Victorians can continue to access the critical help they need to stay safe and well with more than $27 million for food and financial relief for our most vulnerable, a boost to family violence services, and more support for our culturally diverse communities.
Building on $30 million announced in June, the boost will help support more Victorians affected by restrictions, delays in the vaccine roll-out, and the continued risk of coronavirus outbreaks.
A $6 million Food Relief Financial Reserve will ensure Victorians facing financial stress can continue to access healthy food, while a further $3.7 million will be allocated to our partners across local government and the Red Cross to support thousands of families required to isolate in their homes to keep others safe.
The package includes $5.9 million to extend the Extreme Hardship Support Program to 31 December 2021. Delivered by the Red Cross, the program provides support to people on temporary and provisional visas and undocumented migrants facing extreme financial hardship who are ineligible for Commonwealth payments.
In recognition of the specific needs of this community, $2 million will boost basic needs and case work support for people seeking asylum.
The CALD Communities Taskforce, established in August 2020, will receive a $7.2 million boost to provide tailored local support, promote vaccine uptake and deliver more emergency food relief to culturally diverse communities.
To keep women and children safe, $2.25 million will be allocated to specialist family violence services to help more survivors access safe accommodation, put food on the table, and provide immediate aid. A further $850,000 will support case work for single mothers and deliver women's mental health projects.
As stated by Premier Daniel Andrews
"We're supporting those who need it most during these challenging times, because nobody should be left behind."
As stated by Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
"No Victorian should have to worry about being able to put a meal on the table - that's why we're boosting support for Victorians in need - who will continue to be among the hardest hit."
As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence
"The leadership of our multicultural communities to get on top of this virus is second to none. We're empowering community organisations to continue their vital work getting information and support to where it is needed most."
As stated by Minister for Women and Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams
"The pandemic is continuing to have deeply gendered impacts, so we're boosting support for women's mental health projects and single mums, alongside more support for our family violence agencies."
