Palliative Care Australia (PCA) congratulates the NSW government for its significant investment in palliative care and commends the tireless work of Palliative Care NSW (PCNSW) in laying the groundwork for improved funding.

The increased investment by the NSW government of $743m over the next five years on top of the $300 million spent in the state each year, will boost jobs and resources across palliative care services in NSW.

PCA CEO Camilla Rowland says the investment is welcome news for the palliative care sector and the people of NSW, who will gain better access to the care needed at the end of their lives.

“This is an exciting announcement. We thank the NSW government for its leadership in Australia recognising the value of palliative care, and the increasing projected demand, by stepping up with such a significant level of investment,” Ms Rowland said.

“There are such fantastic palliative care services in NSW, and it’s so heartening to know these services will be receiving additional staffing and resources to reach more people.

“The NSW community will now have more access to high-quality palliative care and better choices when diagnosed with a life-limiting illness to ensure they receive the respect and dignity they deserve at the end of their lives.

“We are particularly pleased with the focus to improve access in rural and regional areas where people cannot access palliative care unless they travel long distances, often hundreds of kilometres, to find a service.”

Ms Rowland praised the work of PCNSW representing their members and community to ensure further funding was on the agenda.

“We work closely with the team at PCNSW, and you won’t find a more dedicated and passionate group of people. This investment is a testament to their hard work and advocacy, along with all those working in palliative care.”

While this is a positive development for NSW, Australia's palliative care sector is chronically underfunded and under-resourced, forcing people to face traumatic end-of-life experiences.

PCA has developed its palliative care Roadmap to guide decision-makers on the investments and initiatives needed to deliver high-quality palliative care for all Australians who need it.

Media Release - PCA congratulates NSW government for its investment in palliative care

Media contact: Jayme Markus – jayme.markus@palliativecare.org.au