AMCS and Carers Victoria Announce a New Partnership to Support Carers and Older People

July 2026

AMCS and Carers Victoria Partner to Support Carers and Older People

Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) is proud to announce a new partnership with Carers Victoria to deliver the Respite and Social Connections for Older People program.

This partnership brings together the strengths of both organisations to support unpaid carers and the older people they care for. By combining Carers Victoria’s expertise in supporting carers with AMCS’s experience delivering culturally responsive services to multicultural communities, the partnership aims to make respite more accessible while creating meaningful opportunities for older people to stay socially connected and engaged in their communities.

Caring for a loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Through this program, carers can take a planned break while older people enjoy a welcoming group environment that encourages social connection, wellbeing and community participation. The program has been designed with a strong focus on creating culturally safe and inclusive experiences that recognise the diverse backgrounds of the people we support.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving the wellbeing of both carers and older people. Together, AMCS and Carers Victoria are working to ensure carers have access to quality respite options while older people continue to build friendships, maintain their independence and remain connected to their communities.

Faten Alhelow, Manager – Community Connections and Well-being at AMCS, welcomed the partnership.

“At AMCS, we understand the important role carers play every day. We’re proud to partner with Carers Victoria to provide culturally responsive opportunities that support carers to take a well-earned break while older people enjoy meaningful social connection in a safe and welcoming environment.”

Judith Abbott, CEO at Carers Victoria, said:

“We’re pleased to partner with Australian Multicultural Community Services to provide carers with greater access to quality respite options. Together, we’re helping ensure carers feel supported while the people they care for remain connected, engaged and included.”

The Respite and Social Connections for Older People program is available for eligible carers supporting an older person who would benefit from social connection in a supported group setting.

To be eligible, the older person must live in Melbourne’s Western Metropolitan region.

To learn more about the program or discuss eligibility and referrals, contact Carers Victoria on 1800 514 845.
Click here to learn more.