With more than 750,000 unpaid carers now in Victoria, those living in regional areas face unique challenges, often navigating service deserts and travelling long distances to access support.
The 2026 Roving Respite program aims to bridge that gap by bringing expert advice, wellbeing activities and peer connection directly to local doorsteps.
The program will visit hubs across Victoria’s regions.
Attendees can drop in for specific sessions or stay for the full day of activities.
Among the activities are education sessions focused on caring for oneself, the service expo where attendees can meet face-to-face with local community organisations and council, and creative sessions including a mandala art colour station and creative wellbeing activities.
There will also be recharge zones, with a sound healing session and quiet spaces to unwind, and an opportunity for connection over a complimentary lunch where local carers can spend some time with one another and share their experiences.
“We know time is a luxury for so many carers, with two-thirds of unpaid carers providing over 60 hours of care a week, so having access locally is vitally important,” Carers Victoria chief executive Judith Abbott said.
“By bringing these services to regional centres like Seymour, we’re making it easier for them to find the information and confidence they need to sustain their vital roles.”
The free program will take place at Our Place, 29 Stewart St, Seymour, between 10am and 3pm on Thursday, October 8.
Registrations, which are essential for catering purposes, can be made by visiting carersvictoria.org.au/rovingrespite or calling 1800 514 845.
Roving Respite is funded by the Victorian Government’s Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
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