mecwacare Expands Volunteer Placements Across Victoria
National Volunteer Week saw an important development as mecwacare announced the expansion of its companionship programme for older Australians across Victoria. The programme received additional funding from the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) on 20 February 2026. This funding will allow mecwacare to increase volunteer placements, improving social connections for older individuals in both residential care and community settings. The initiative specifically targets the reduction of loneliness and social isolation, which are key issues affecting seniors today.
Anne McCormack, CEO of mecwacare, emphasised the program’s significance. ‘At its heart, ACVVS is about human connection. The friendships the Scheme enables bring companionship and genuine social connection into people’s lives in a way that is right for them,’ she said.
The announcement aligns with National Volunteer Week’s theme of recognizing the vital role of social connection and companionship in supporting the well-being of older Australians. ACVVS connects older people with volunteers for regular visits, helping reduce loneliness for those in residential aged care or receiving community support.
Volunteer Stories Highlight Programme Impact
Jean and Teresa from Mornington exemplify the program’s success. Since being matched in August 2024, their fortnightly meetings have fostered a deep friendship, providing mutual support and companionship. Despite recent health challenges, Teresa values Jean’s visits, saying, ‘It’s what I look forward to most in my week.’
Jean, who received the ACVVS Volunteer of the Year award, remarked, ‘Volunteering has truly changed my life. It’s a two-way journey—I’ve gained so much.’ Her recognition took place at mecwacare’s Volunteer Appreciation High Tea on 19 May.
Volunteers have been an integral part of mecwacare’s story since 1959. The organisation currently supports over 500 volunteers across various services, including residential care homes and community outreach programs. mecwacare encourages more Victorians to volunteer, enhancing social connections for older Australians.
