One of Victoria’s largest not-for-profit community services providers, Uniting Vic.Tas, says while the $12 billion boost to health was essential, the 2022-23 Victorian State Budget still risks leaving many of our most vulnerable behind.
Uniting Vic.Tas CEO Bronwyn Pike said it was disappointing the Government had not extended the successful Homelessness to a Home program.
“We’re disappointed about Homelessness to a Home which provided thousands of people who had been sleeping rough with a roof over their head during the pandemic,” Ms Pike said
“This was a program which made a real difference, giving people a sense of hope and some light at the end of the tunnel, so we would have like to have seen it continue and even extended further.
“We have committed $20 million towards social housing, including a plan to build 500 new homes over the next five years. While the government is providing significant investment in social housing, we believe they still need to go further.
“We’re pleased the government is delivering $490,000 to upgrade Uniting in Prahran which supports thousands of locals every week, including providing hot meals each day. This funding also includes a 12-month mental health duty worker.
“Increased investment in therapeutic support and interventions for children and families impacted by family violence is welcome, and it was also pleasing to see funding for an additional 150 residential care placements for at-risk children.
“Further investment in programs for at-risk children and families is timely, however, we believe more needs to be done to make the out-of-home care system fairer by ensuring all children receive the appropriate therapeutic care.
“The $250 cash incentive for households to shop around for the best energy deals provides some immediate cost-of-living relief, but we would have liked more targeted and long-term support for those on low-incomes and income support payments.”
