Tuesday, 2 December 2025

 Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (14:32): I rise today to update the house on the Allan Labor government’s strong and ongoing commitment to supporting unpaid carers. In Victoria more than 750,000 unpaid carers provide support to family or friends with a disability, chronic or mental illness, age-related conditions or other care needs, and we know what an important role these Victorians play in our community. That is why last week I joined the Premier and the Minister for Transport Infrastructure to announce the expansion of free weekend public transport to all Victorian carer card holders from 1 February 2026. We were fortunate to be joined by several carers on the day, people who shared with us what this will mean for them and for those they care for. Their stories made clear that this practical cost-of-living support will not only save them hundreds of dollars each year but help them stay connected with friends and family, work and study and enable them to take a break from their caring duties when they need to.

[NAMES AWAITING VERIFICATION]

For Elleni, who cares for Philip, who is a train buff, it means enjoying the new Metro Tunnel with him.

Supporting unpaid carers is central to building a stronger, healthier and more inclusive Victoria, and it is a key focus of our refreshed Victorian Carer Strategy. While others may dismiss the value of major projects that improve the lives of Victorians and consider them a waste, we want to make sure all Victorians can enjoy them. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank all the unpaid carers across Victoria for their enormous contribution. We will continue to be by their side each and every day.