Minister for Community Services says

Victorians living with a disability, their families and carers now have much easier access to respite thanks to a new online resource.
Ms Neville joined the CEO of Barwon Health, Dr David Ashbridge, representatives from local support agencies and people with a disability to officially launch the Respite Online Information Service at the Newcomb Community Health Centre today.
The Brumby Labor Government recognises the vital role families, friends and other carers play in supporting people with a disability in Victoria, Ms Neville said.
We understand Victorians are concerned about the stress families who are caring for a disabled child or other loved ones are under, that is why we are making it easier for them to find and access the respite service that best meets their needs.
Whether it s respite for a weekend or during the school holidays, there are many options families can choose from.
When you move to a new area, it can be difficult to know where to start searching for services for carers or people with a disability.
Previously, accessing information about what respite was available was a complex and time consuming task, but this new website will provide users with a one-stop-shop for detailed information about all the available services.
Carers will be able to find information about respite services that are available in an emergency, people with a disability can find day programs that are available and parents can find information about what out-of-school hours services are available.
Ms Neville said the new online information service was guided by the principles of Victoria s State Disability Plan.
This website is providing people with a disability with maximum control over their lives and improving their opportunities to participate in the community, she said.
It is building on the services the Brumby Labor Government is already delivering to help Victorians with a disability to stay at home rather than move prematurely into residential care.
The service will be delivered as a part of a $1 million commitment to improve online respite information services and improve access and coordination of respite services across the state.