Evelyn electorate
Bridget VALLENCE (Evelyn) (14:37): (312) Elder abuse is a significant and sadly an increasing issue. Members of my community raised serious concerns about the Andrews Labor government’s cuts to the integrated model of care program in the recent state budget, a program that provided elder abuse prevention workers across Victoria. The government should be doing more, not less, especially after the findings of the royal commission. My question is to the Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers: given client demand is increasing and waiting lists are eight to 12 weeks for vital support, what will happen to the integrated model of care workforce; who is replacing these local community-based elder abuse prevention workers; and will people experiencing elder abuse expect any changes in the way they access services and receive support, including face-to-face assistance? It seems the government has failed to release any details about the IMOC trial program, and while new funding is allocated for primary prevention programs, my community want to know what will replace IMOC in communities for those already suffering abuse.