Carer and Family Support
Did you know there are over 2.65 million carers in Australia?
Many carers don’t see themselves as carers—they’re simply family members or friends doing what needs to be done to support someone they love. But whether you provide a little help or a lot, Lifely’s carer support services are here for you.
Carer and Family Respite Services
Caring for someone with a disability can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Carer respite gives you the break you need to recharge, stay healthy, and continue providing the best care possible. Whether you need time for yourself, your hobbies, or to connect with others, we’ve got you covered.We offer a range of free and affordable in-home and community support options designed to help families in Bendigo and Central Victoria, and Mildura and the Mallee:
- In-Home Support: Take a break while we step in to provide care and cover activity costs for up to 12 occasions depending on your family members support needs.
- Supported Family Holidays: Join other families for fun, relaxing weekends filled with activities designed to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
- Carer Respite Events: Enjoy local community activities with other carers, supported by our team, with costs for meals and activities covered.
- Day Trips: Escape the daily routine with exciting outings to local and regional attractions.
In-Home Support
Take a break while we care for your loved one at home. Our community support workers provide free in-home care, so you can:
- Enjoy some time out while we look after your family member.
- Get things done at home with peace of mind.
- Spend quality time together on recreational or social activities.
- Families can access up to 12 free sessions of in-home support, depending on their famiyl members support needs.
Families in Bendigo, Central Victoria, Mildura, and the Mallee can access this service.
Respite Events
Join our supportive group events and outings designed for families and carers. Choose from:
- Carer-only events for a well-earned break.
- Accessible events where we care for your loved one.
- Family-friendly events to create special memories together.
Most events are free, with occasional small fees for activities or meals. This service supports families residing in Bendigo, Central Victoria, Mildura, and the Mallee
Day Trips
Discover regional and city attractions with our carer-focused day trips. Leave in the morning and return by bedtime, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun. Our yearly excursions include a mix of activities and destinations, catering to the needs of families and carers of all ages and backgrounds.
With subsidised travel and activities plus free support, most trips are free or involve only a small cost for meals or activities. Available to families across Bendigo, Central Victoria, Mildura, and the Mallee regions.
Supported Holidays and Camps
Relax and enjoy a getaway with your family, supported by our caring team. Travel on your own or with others on a group trip. Thanks to subsidised travel and activities, plus free support, these holidays are affordable, easy, and full of fun!
We arrange multiple holidays and camps throughout the year, providing a variety of destinations and experiences for families and carers from diverse backgrounds. Families in the Bendigo, Central Victoria, Mildura, and Mallee areas are eligible for this service.
Who Can Access These Services?
Lifely’s carer respite is available to Victorian families and carers who provide unpaid support to someone with a disability living in Central Victoria and Mallee.
Carer and Family Support Groups
Connecting with other carers and families who get what you’re going through can make all the difference—it’s a chance to share stories, swap advice, and find support, empathy, and even friendship from people who truly understand.
Sibling social group
A supportive group for kids with a sibling or family member with a disability to make friends and enjoy a fun day out!
Trips run from morning to afternoon, with subsidised travel and activities supervised by our community support workers. Most are free, or there’s a small cost for entry fees or spending money. Join us for a day of fun and adventure!
This group operates in Bendigo and Mildura and is open to children and teenagers from across the region, provided families can arrange their own travel to the meeting location.
Carers Chill and Chat
Being a carer is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be demanding, isolating, and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why we’ve introduced Carers Chill and Chat—a welcoming space where you can take a well-earned break, enjoy a coffee, and connect with others who truly understand what it’s like to be a carer.
Share your experiences, find support, and recharge in a relaxed and safe environment with other carers from your local area. This group runs in Mildura and is open to families from all over the region—just bring yourself and arrange your own travel to join us!
How are carer and family support services funded?
At Lifely, we’re proud to offer carers’ programs and support groups funded through the Home and Community Care (HACC) Program for Younger People and the Victorian Government’s Support for Carers Program. These initiatives ensure our services remain accessible and affordable, giving carers like you the support you need to thrive.
While most activities are free, a small co-payment may apply for some services—helping us continue to provide valuable resources and opportunities for carers.
Discover how these funding programmes make a real difference for carers across Central Victoria, Bendigo, Mildura, and the Mallee!
We’d Love to Hear from You!
We’re here to help carers and families. Reach out to us anytime between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
📞 Call Us: 1300 799 421
Or, fill out our form by clicking the button below.
