People living with dementia and their carers across Victoria’s Loddon Mallee region will continue to access GreenConnect’s nature-based support program after the Australian Government committed more than $500,000 to extend funding until 30 June 2027.
The funding, provided through the Aged Care Support Program, gives certainty to participants and families as the original funding period comes to an end, allowing activities to continue across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions.
GreenConnect is led by Princes Court in partnership with Heathcote Health and La Trobe University’s John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research within the Rural Health School. The program was launched in April 2024 following an extensive co-design process that identified a lack of support for people living with dementia and their carers immediately after diagnosis. It was awarded a highly commended prize as part of the 2024 Future of Ageing Awards run by this publication.
Rather than focusing solely on clinical care, GreenConnect combines nature-based activities with peer support, social connection and shared experiences, enabling people living with dementia and their carers to participate together.
Since its launch, the program has delivered 57 activities, supported more than 150 active participants and recorded more than 1,100 participant engagements. Evaluation findings found that 98.7 per cent of participants were extremely likely to recommend the program, while 85 per cent continued attending through a stable core group.
Research conducted by La Trobe University’s John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research found participants experienced improvements in quality of life despite the progressive nature of dementia, while carers consistently reported low levels of burden throughout the program.
Dr Tshepo Rasekaba from La Trobe Rural Health School said the funding extension recognised the value of community-led dementia support.
“This funding extension recognises the importance of delivering dementia support that is shaped by the experiences of people living with dementia, their carers and regional communities.”
“Our evaluation has shown that participants experienced improvements in quality of life, while carers reported consistently low levels of burden throughout the program,” Dr Rasekaba added.
GreenConnect Project Manager Catherine Hyett said the extension would allow participants to continue accessing opportunities that reduce social isolation and strengthen community connections.
“Over the past three years, we have seen people form genuine friendships, build confidence and develop supportive networks with others who understand the experience of living with dementia,” she said.
“For many participants, GreenConnect provides opportunities to remain active, connected and involved in their community at a time when people can often become socially isolated following a diagnosis.”
Participant and carer Judi Hyde said the relationships formed through the program had become an important source of support.
“It’s the friendships we make with others, the support we need as carers and friends, dealing with the same pressure and pain and not feeling alone,” she said.
Another participant described GreenConnect as different from traditional respite services.
“It’s about connection. We really enjoy coming to the events together and meeting others who understand.”
Princes Court Chief Executive Officer Anthony Couroupis welcomed the extension, saying GreenConnect had demonstrated the benefits of bringing people together in supportive community settings.
“We are grateful to the Australian Government for extending this funding and enabling GreenConnect to continue supporting people living with dementia and their carers across the Loddon Mallee region,” he said.
The consortium will continue delivering activities across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions over the next 12 months while exploring options to secure the program’s future beyond June 2027.
