FAQs

How much does Meals on Wheels cost?

Every effort is made to keep meals as affordable as possible, particularly as many of our customers are receiving support from a Government-funded program or experiencing food insecurity. The costs of meals vary from service to service but generally vary between $8.50 and $12.00 a meal. Contact your local service provider to find out more.

What does a meal consist of and when is it delivered?

The majority of providers offer soup, main course and dessert.

The frequency of meal delivery is based on an assessment of your individual needs and support network. Some Meals on Wheels customers purchase meals short-term after an operation, medium term due to illness, or more long-term. You can receive meals two to three days a week, or five to seven days a week, depending on your needs and the delivery schedules of your local provider.

Meal delivery times vary from service to service. Most Meals on Wheels services provide one three-course lunch-time meal and deliver Monday to Friday (with weekend meals provided on the Friday) and some also offer weekend delivery.

How do I become a Meals on Wheels customer?

Eligibility for subsidised meals will depend on your age and circumstances. Simply click here to find your local service and give them a call. They can discuss your needs and how Meals on Wheels can support you to maintain independence, wellbeing and connection.

How do I find my local service?

Meals on Wheels services can be found in almost every community around Victoria. Click here to find the contact details for the Meals on Wheels service operating near you.

How is Meals on Wheels funded?

Meals on Wheels is primarily funded by the Australian Government via the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). To receive Meals on Wheels at a subsidised cost through the CHSP, you must contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to arrange an assessment. If you require the Meals on Wheels service urgently, your My Aged Care assessment can occur after the service has commenced.

The Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACCYP) is subsidised by the State Government. To receive the subsidised service for HACCPYP, please contact your local Council who will provide details of the service in your area.

Independent Meals on Wheels services are also funded through donations and customer contributions.

How do I volunteer or work for Meals on Wheels?

Volunteering for Meals on Wheels is a rewarding experience and enables you to remain socially connected and engaged, while supporting vulnerable members of your community. Without the dedication and generosity of our volunteers and paid staff, our valuable work would not be possible. Voluntary tasks range from delivering meals, preparing and packing food to administrative tasks. Local services are always on the look-out for new volunteers and staff members. If you are interested in volunteering for Meals on Wheels, click here to find the details of your local service, and get in touch to discuss available opportunities today.

As a peak body, what does Meals on Wheels Victoria do?

Meals on Wheels Victoria is the peak state body, representing the community of grassroots services across Victoria dedicated to the wellbeing, connection and independence of our most vulnerable.

We play an important role in developing and sharing best practice between the member services, along with promoting and raising awareness of Meals on Wheels and the customers we serve.

We offer a single point of contact between Meals on Wheels services, policy-makers, funders, regulators and other key stakeholders.

Meals on Wheels Victoria is funded by member subscriptions ($100 per year) and a yearly contribution from the federal government of approximately $5000 a year. For 2021/22 financial year we have secured funding for a State Manager. However all day to day operational functions are performed by a dedicated team of volunteers. Our central number is attended Monday to Friday (including public holidays) for people wanting to know more about the service, or in some cases having trouble contacting their local provider.

I have a complaint or feedback for my local service. Who do I send it to?

If you wish to provide feedback (either negative or positive) about your local service, we suggest you contact them directly. You can also contact us at Meals on Wheels Victoria for advice, as we take any complaints or concerns very seriously. It’s also helpful to hear about your positive experiences. You may also like to view the Meals on Wheels Best Practice Guidelines here. If you are unsatisfied with the responses you receive, you can write a letter to your local Mayor, MP or counsellors. If you require an advocate to speak on your behalf you can use family or friends, or an advocacy service such as Office of the Public Advocate (1300 309 337), or Senior Rights Victoria (1300 368 821) or National Aged Care Advocacy Line (1800 700 600).

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