National Palliative Care Week 2023 - 'Matters of Life and Death'
National Palliative Care Week 2023 - 'Matters of Life and Death'
Friday, March 17, 2023
National Palliative Care Week runs, 21 May to 27 May 2023 and aims to put ‘Matters of Life and Death’ front and centre in Australia’s consciousness. Camilla Rowland, Chief Executive Officer at Palliative Care Australia (PCA) says, “We understand that death and dying is a difficult subject to talk about and engage with, but this year we have some powerful voices joining the campaign to inspire and start important conversations.”
“The ‘people at the heart of quality palliative care’ – our workforce and volunteers, have opened their hearts to share the life lessons they learn everyday as they provide care and support to people and families living with a life limiting illness.
“The vibrant video and social media campaign that is central to the week will also allow us all to show our appreciation for the doctors, nurses, physios, social workers, occupational therapists, dietitians, volunteers and the many others who contribute to the person-centred team approach to palliative care.”
Adding further weight to our message is the world premiere of ‘Live the life you please’, a powerful documentary produced by Moonshine Agency. The film delves into the stories of real people from across the country, sharing their personal experiences of palliative care. The film will make you smile, laugh, laugh harder and occasionally shed a tear as this diverse range of Australians share the last chapter of their life with us.
“National Palliative Care Week and the stories we’ll share will open the door on the full scope and impact of palliative care and the quality of life it delivers. I hope it provides a moment of reflection for all Australians to think about and plan for the last chapter of life,” Ms Rowland says.
Film screenings and a host of other events will make for a busy NPCW around the country. A full list of events can be found below as well as a range tools to help grow awareness of palliative care. Getting involved and showing your support for palliative care and the people who deliver it is as easy as sharing your story on social media using #MattersOfLifeAndDeath.
“Whether you are receiving palliative care, looking after someone or know someone who is receiving care, we encourage you to share your experience and break down those taboos,” Ms Rowland says. The advice, tools, and support below have been pulled together to support those working and volunteering in palliative care and help anyone and everyone better understand palliative care and how to access it.
You will also find some great resources to start end-of-life conversations and record those wishes and plans. Please make the most of the communication and marketing assets below to show your support and help amplify the message.
Thanks again, got a question? Email pca@palliativecare.org.au
See what's happening in your state or territory
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National movie screenings
Advice for you
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Other advice, tools and support
- Understanding self-care
- Planning for self-care
- Self-Care Matters campaign resources – a Palliative Care Australia resource, which aims to support you – whatever your role in palliative care – to prevent burnout and build resilience
- Self-care for volunteers working in paediatric palliative care
- Self-care for health professionals working in paediatric palliative care
- Questions for carers to ask the team caring for your loved one
- The Essence of Spiritual Care: A learning module for health care workers
- End of Life Directions for Aged Care (ELDAC) Toolkits – designed to help you in providing palliative care and advance care planning to older Australians
- National Palliative Care Standards for Specialist Palliative Care Services
- National Palliative Care Standards for All Health Professionals and Aged Care Services
- CareSearch Health Professionals Centre – providing trustworthy and practical resources that are relevant to your practice
- End-of-Life Essentials: free education modules and resources
- Palliative Care Online Short Courses, Flinders University
- Oceanic Palliative Care Conference, Sydney, September 2023
- Free PCA shop
- Palliative care NSW – Homelessness and Palliative Care Report
- Department of Health and Aged Care – Exploratory Analysis of Barriers to Palliative Care – Issues Report on People Experiencing Homelessness
- CareSearch: palliative care issues for people experiencing homelessness
- Palliative Care Australia – Providing palliative care for people who are homeless; attempting to break down barriers
- Homeless Palliative Care Toolkit
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Quick links to more info
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Join the conversation
Rest in peace Peta Murphy MP Federal Member for Dunkley, a life lived fully till the very end. Thank you for your service, and thank you for sharing your life and death so openly. We are all better for it.
Palliative care and end of life is a team effort – thank you to the health professionals, volunteers, and community members who play their role in supporting people like Peta and their loved ones.
More from The Guardian Australia ➡️ https://ow.ly/Yow150QfkQX
📸 Peta Murphy, 31 May 2023, Parliament House, Canberra (Facebook).
500km east of Darwin lies Maningrida, one of the most remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory. Mala’la Aged Care sits at the heart of this special place.
The documentary ‘Live the life you please’ takes you there as part of its exploration of how Australians do and don’t consider the end of their life.
For many of the residents of Mala’la, being on Country and with family is central to their end of life wishes. Elders are taken on fishing trips and harvest pandanus to weave baskets and other items as part of the care they receive.
An important part of the service is facilitating Advance Care Plans for local residents. An Advance Care Plan is developed to ensure that an individual’s wishes are known should they become unable to communicate how and where they want to be cared for.
To learn more, rent the movie or purchase the education package ➡️ https://ow.ly/h7TO50QeRN4
On this International Day of People with Disability, a quick update on an issue that is causing distress in our community.
As ABC News reported in October, “Australians with terminal illnesses are being left in limbo as state governments and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) battle over who should fund their disability supports.”
PCA and our members around Australia have been engaged in positive conversations with relevant ministers and departments. All involved accept there is a problem, with good short-term and long-term steps on the table. We will continue to push for better and keep you updated.
Full ABC story ➡️ https://ow.ly/yu5O50Qeckc
“People with dementia deserve better access to palliative care and the benefits it can offer. If we improve palliative care for people with dementia, we improve palliative care for everyone,” says Dr Elissa Campbell, Geriatrician, Palliative Care Physician, and Chair of Palliative Care WA.
Catch up on Dr Campbell’s wisdom from 23OPCC as part of our People of Palliative Care series ➡️ https://ow.ly/iWgG50Qecaf
We were pleased to host all our friends from the National Palliative Care Projects under one roof, at the Parliamentary Friends of Palliative Care event at the Parliament House.
“We are so grateful to all the National Palliative Care Projects and advocate for continuing these to ensure the resources are relevant and updated as they help thousands working in the sector,” said Claudia Virdun, Vice President, Palliative Care Nurses Australia Inc..
The National Palliative Care Projects funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care have been working towards improving quality and access to critical support and treatment for people at the end of their lives.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a researcher, a carer, or someone living with a life-limiting illness – the Projects offer a range of helpful tools and info to deepen your understanding of palliative care and expand your skills.
Good news 📣😃 – you can now browse all the Projects on one platform. Head to the National Palliative Care Projects hub to find out more 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/national-palliative-care-project-hub/
Palliative care is rewarding work, but your tank can run low at times – that’s natural.
To fill your tank, we have made many of the sessions from the 2023 Oceanic Palliative Care Conference available on video for you to watch anytime, anywhere.
Delegates get access as part of registration, or you can purchase a subscription. Three ‘sneak peek’ sessions are available at no charge; they look at the National Palliative Care Standards, palliative care in the Pacific, and complex pain management in remote communities.
Explore 23OPCC Education Hub ➡️ https://ow.ly/LQ5X50Qbn8R
Why do you work in palliative care? Hit play to hear responses from 23OPCC ⬇️
“I’ve had a pretty good life and I wanted to celebrate it: be with all the people who’ve been very special in it. And not after I’ve died. It just seemed weird for everyone to get together then. If I knew I was going to die anyway, why not get together beforehand and have a beautiful party?” says Annie Wener from Bega, NSW.
Annie shared her recent living funeral with The Guardian ➡️ https://ow.ly/BC9q50QbkNK
Thanks for sharing your insights Annie.
🎤Mic drop from 23OPCC! 🎤
“Some acute care clinicians, even now, would be surprised at the value of engaging palliative care expertise quite early in the discussion of a significant illness,” says Professor Brendan Murphy.
Catch up on the wise words of the former Secretary of the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care as part of our People of Palliative Care series ➡️ https://ow.ly/xQ0U50QaSIe
Make sure palliative care is part of the National Nursing Workforce Strategy – have your say!
The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care is developing a National Nursing Workforce Strategy to address workforce challenges and support the nursing profession now and into the future.
Consultation is now open but closes next Thursday – 30 November.
Find out more and take part ➡️ https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-nursing-workforce-strategy
“I wept most of the way through this film. It wasn’t because it was about death, and nor was it because it recounts real pain and tragedy. It was because it was so beautiful,” says Dr. Dan Fleming, St Vincent’s Health Australia.
‘Live the life you please’ is a powerful documentary film about living and dying in Australia. It will make you smile, laugh, laugh harder, and occasionally shed a tear. Be prepared to witness a treasure trove of incredible stories captured from all around Australia.
You can now watch this acclaimed film anytime, anywhere, from as little as $7. A powerful educational package is also available, highlighting the voice of lived experience.
Watch and explore ➡️ https://ow.ly/MbFI50QaAl0
An updated and more comprehensive version of the “go to resource” for health professionals working in paediatric palliative care in Australia and New Zealand is now available.
Digital and hardcopy versions of ‘A Practical Guide to Palliative Care in Paediatrics’ or as it is commonly known ‘the Green Book’, are now available free of charge.
“The Green Book really empowers palliative care workers in the most challenging of circumstances and seeks to share the knowledge and resources that underpin quality of life for the 30,000 infants, children, and young people living with live limiting conditions in Australia,” says Camilla Rowland, CEO, PCA.
More ➡️ https://ow.ly/GtmJ50Qa7Ge
📸 Dr Anthony Herbert, chair of the Clinical Expert Advisory Panel writing group, and Dr Ross Drake, Chair of Paediatric Palliative Care Australia and New Zealand.
It’s often said we live in a death-denying society. Here’s how the community of St Louis, Missouri, is trying to break down those taboos. Click play below.
Got a similar event planned for your local community? Let our members know about it ➡️ https://ow.ly/xIBS50Qa7nN
It’s great to be at the National Multicultural Health and Wellbeing Conference in Sydney with our friends from the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia – FECCA.
Reflecting people’s cultural wishes and traditions as part of their palliative care experience is so important to how patients and their families experience the last chapter of life. We are learning so much and opening big conversations.
Come and say hello and pick up some of our end of life tools for multicultural communities. Can’t be here? You can download and order free hardcopies via the PCA Shop – https://palliativecare.org.au/shop/
📸 Tonina Gucciardo-Masci from Palliative Care Victoria with Camilla Rowland, Chelsea Menchin, and Hannah Skipsey from PCA.
#MulticulturalHealth
“The community has to own its central role in end of life and bereavement care, with formal professionals advising, supporting and contributing as required,” Prof Samar Aoun told an engaged audience at 23OPCC.
Dive deeper as part of our ‘People of Palliative Care’ series ➡️ https://ow.ly/FRoY50Q8zCW
Four gracious and generous mums have been central to developing PCA’s new ‘Guide to Planning a Funeral for Your Child’.
Their lived experience has helped shape advice and guidance for one of the toughest experiences in life. Thank you! Booklet and accompanying video ➡️ https://ow.ly/8i3q50Q3j08
Thank you also to the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care for supporting this important project.
Recordings from the biggest palliative care conference ever held in the Southern Hemisphere are now available to watch at anytime, anywhere.
“Over 1400 delegates were fully engaged in the 2023 Oceanic Palliative Care Conference (23OPCC) in Sydney during mid-September, and we know many more people wanted to be there but couldn’t, so we are delighted to launch of the 23OPCC Education Hub and extend the many insights to an even bigger group of people,” says Camilla Rowland, CEO, PCA.
Registered 23OPCC delegates can access the recordings now, for those who didn’t attend, subscriptions are available for purchase.
Three ‘sneak peek’ sessions are available now at no charge. Explore all content in the 2023 Oceanic Palliative Care Conference Education Hub ➡️ https://ow.ly/fRph50Q7KqT
Click play to hear delegates reflect on their key takeaways from 23OPCC ⬇️
Palliative Care Australia welcomes you to another PCA Connect webinar – ‘Embracing Inclusion: Providing Supportive Palliative Care for LGBTIQ+ Communities’ on Wednesday 15 November at 12 pm AEDT. This event is produced in collaboration with LGBTIQ+ Health Australia.
The webinar aims to shed light on providing patient-centred and culturally sensitive palliative care for the LGBTIQ+ communities.
Using a scenario-based example, we will examine the unique challenges and barriers faced by the LGBTIQ+ communities when seeking care at the end of life. We will delve into the complexities of gender identity, sexual orientation, variations of sex characteristics and cultural diversity, and discuss how these factors impact the care that is provided. Our expert panel of speakers will share their knowledge and insights on best practice for creating inclusive and supportive environments for LGBTIQ+ patients and their loved ones in palliative care.
We look forward to seeing you there. In the meantime, you can check out LGBTIQ+ Health Australia’s free eLearnng modules to increase healthcare providers’ confidence in providing LGBTIQ+ inclusive palliative care – https://www.lgbtiqhealth.org.au/palliative_care
Only 2 days to go for the next PCA Connect webinar, ‘Embracing Inclusion: Providing Supportive Palliative Care for LGBTIQ+ Communities’!! 📣
Working with our friends at LGBTIQ+ Health Australia this PCA Connect webinar will shed light on providing patient-centred and culturally sensitive palliative care for LGBTIQ+ communities.
Our experts will examine the unique challenges and barriers faced by LGBTIQ+ communities when seeking care at the end of life and offer you the tools to make a difference.
Be part of the conversation on Wednesday, 15 November at 12pm AEDT, find out more and register, its FREE 👉 https://ow.ly/mghz50Q6Pu7
Last week’s Annual General Meeting was a chance to reflect on a positive year of partnerships and impact, and welcome two new directors to the PCA Board.
“Our connections and collaboration not just with member organisations, but across the primary care, aged care, disability, paediatric, and specialist palliative care sectors has delivered significant results that I am very proud of,” says Prof Meera Agar, PCA Chair.
More ➡️ https://ow.ly/a3eS50Q6bS5
Following her fabulousness at #23OPCC Dr Jo Doran is headed for the Australian Association of Gerontology (AAG) Conference next week on the Gold Coast.
Jo will be part of a workshop hosted by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care supporting health and aged care workers with conversations about palliative care and the end-of-life.
Find out more ➡️ https://ow.ly/GQMK50Q6bNw
Join us ‘Embracing Inclusion: Providing Supportive Palliative Care for LGBTIQ+ Communities’.
Working with our friends at LGBTIQ+ Health Australia this PCA Connect webinar will shed light on providing patient-centred and culturally sensitive palliative care for LGBTIQ+ communities.
Our experts will examine the unique challenges and barriers faced by LGBTIQ+ communities when seeking care at the end of life and offer you the tools to make a difference.
Be part of the conversation on Wednesday, 15 November at 12pm AEDT, find out more and register, its FREE ➡️ https://ow.ly/iPLg50Q1lMM
On the back of the recent Aged & Community Care Providers Association Conference the interest in growing and developing palliative care skills has been overwhelming.
Bianca at HelloCare has done a great job on pulling together some of the best training and education opportunities ➡️ https://ow.ly/tLFH50Q3M6F
Shape the future of paediatric palliative care!
PCA and Paediatric Palliative Care Australia and New Zealand are undertaking a new paediatric palliative care project – ‘Shaping the Future of Paediatric Palliative Care’ and your insights are essential to its success.
Join us on the journey to enhance care for infants, children, young people and their families. Complete the EOI to be part of improving workforce communication skills, developing clinical guidelines, improving transition to adult services, increasing access, and raising awareness.
Together let’s make a meaningful impact! Express your interest 👉 https://ow.ly/1tMJ50PXWVy
GPs play a pivotal role in the care of people with advanced disease, palliative care specialist Associate Professor Mark Boughey writes for RACGP.
“With that in mind, I encourage GPs to have the following conversations and put in place the following supports.” More ➡️ https://ow.ly/uPUe50Q3KAr
A great read Mark, thanks for what you do.
Planning a funeral or memorial for a child is one of the most difficult times in life.
With the help of families who have walked in those shoes, as well health professionals and those working in funeral care, PCA has released a booklet and accompanying video to support and guide families. More ➡️ https://ow.ly/8i3q50Q3j08
Thank you to the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) and Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care for your support.
Lance first felt that something was wrong when he couldn’t finish cutting a hedge due to weakness in one of his arms. He was then diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND).
Although life-changing, Lance and his wife Cécile are committed to working through the challenges together and manage to find joy and laughter in each day. Despite being blind, Cécile has incredibly adapted to Lance’s needs and manages much of his care herself.
Every person’s palliative care journey is unique to them. Lance’s story is just one of the many beautiful stories in ‘Live the life you please’. Rent now for as little as $7 and gather your friends and family to watch it. You can also buy it as an educational package, and bring lived experience and real stories into your training 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/mediarelease/acclaimed-end-of-life-doco-now-available-in-new-formats/
There is a real momentum building around the need to address the disconnect that so many feel and live with between the NDIS and palliative care services.
As Kathy Boschen and Caroline Phelan from Flinders University write, “How can we support people better and make sure they don’t fall between the gaps?” Catch up on the full article via The Conversation Australia + NZ ➡️ https://ow.ly/JzxU50Q2p37
PCA and our members are working positively with government to address this in the short and long term ➡️ https://ow.ly/Mtq250Q2p38
Thank you for your advocacy Kathy and Caroline.
People living with disabilities linked to life-limiting conditions are experiencing reduced access to services that help them stay at home and remain independent.
“Recent media reports, as well as many stories from families, healthcare workers and advocates, point to a break down in how palliative care services and the NDIS are integrated, which means vulnerable people are going without critical services,” says Camilla Rowland, CEO, Palliative Care Australia.
More ➡️ https://ow.ly/ghzH50Q1WbC
PCA has provided detailed advice to government around addressing these challenges as quickly as possible, while also considering long-term solutions.
With partners like Palliative Care Social Work Australia – PCSWA and our other member organisations in every state and territory, we will keep working with government to ensure people towards the end of their life get the support they need.
Thank you to those who have shared their stories with ABC News in order to highlight the change needed ➡️ https://ow.ly/Upax50Q1RXB
Join us ‘Embracing Inclusion: Providing Supportive Palliative Care for LGBTIQ+ Communities’.
Working with our friends at LGBTIQ+ Health Australia this PCA Connect webinar will shed light on providing patient-centred and culturally sensitive palliative care for LGBTIQ+ communities.
Our experts will examine the unique challenges and barriers faced by LGBTIQ+ communities when seeking care at the end of life and offer you the tools to make a difference.
Be part of the conversation on Wednesday, 15 November at 12pm AEDT, find out more and register, its FREE ➡️ https://ow.ly/iPLg50Q1lMM
“The impetus is on everyone working in healthcare to recognise end of life care as a priority and to consider how to achieve safe and high-quality care for patients and families,” says Deb Rawlings from Flinders University.
With demand for palliative care increasing in line with our aging population, catch up on this important and timely research by Deb and her colleagues ➡️ https://ow.ly/ccOP50Q1kZU
General Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Allied Health Professionals, volunteers and carers, as well as specialist palliative care services play a critical role in delivering quality care to people of all ages living with life-limiting illness.
We appreciate them for the work they do.
Become an Ally of palliative care today 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/i-am-an-ally/
#MattersOfLifeAndDeath 🧡
This Spiritual Care Week, take the opportunity to learn the power and importance of spirituality in the delivery of health care.
Palliative Care Australia and Spiritual Health Association collaborated on a series of free eLearning modules earlier this year, to raise awareness of spiritual care and develop skills within the health workforce.
“In the context of palliative care, spiritual care really makes those life questions come forward and gives people a framework to explore them and reflect on what’s important in a way that makes sense,” says Luke Bowen, Chair of Spiritual Health Association.
“Spiritual care is everybody’s business – we treat the whole person, we don’t just look at people as just livers, or arms, or hips, or eyes, we look at the whole person and that is the key message in this training.”
Each training module is free and can be done individually at your own time and pace, start ➡️ https://palliativecare.org.au/mediarelease/spiritual-care-is-everybodys-business-free-online-training-for-health-workers-and-volunteers/
“Feelings of grief and hurt are common around palliative care. Similar emotions have been expressed around the Referendum process and result,” says Camilla Rowland, PCA, CEO.
“Healing takes time and we encourage anyone feeling that way for whatever reason to reach out to their support network or seek professional support through services like 13 Yarn, Grief Australia, or Griefline.
“PCA has confidence that Australians remain committed to reconciliation and improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, just as we remain committed to playing our part in that journey.”
Full statement ➡️ https://ow.ly/RRyz50PZZEi
The End-of-Life Essentials project has launched a new animated video, ‘A Patient’s Perspective’, based on the experiences of a very generous woman, who, when faced with her own life-limiting illness, wanted to share her experience to highlight the importance of genuine connections with the healthcare staff.
Healthcare professionals face unique challenges when providing care to individuals dealing with progressive serious illness, and may find themselves in unfamiliar territory when the patient cannot be cured.
The video provides another End-of-Life Essentials educational opportunity to build your skills and confidence in patient care, and prompts us to see and respond to patients as people with lives beyond their illness.
Watch the video here 👉 https://bit.ly/EOLE_PatientPOV
“Eight years ago, we were invited by healthcare colleagues in Gaza to collaborate to support plans towards improving palliative care,” writes Rachel Coghlan, PCA Director and a humanitarian and palliative care practitioner.
They had a vision to improve dignity and quality of life in the face of health suffering and create a community of practitioners driven by hope, healing and common humanity.
This shared vision has quickly vanished from the face of Gaza as the home of the first palliative care program for the poorest people, Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, was destroyed in a horrific attack last week.
Our thoughts are with our palliative care colleagues who are trying to deliver care at end of life during this time of conflict, while also experiencing their own loss. Read their story here 👉
Are you a carer or know someone who’s a carer? The contribution of carers to their families, communities, and our country is invaluable. There are thousands of Australians caring for loved ones every single day. It’s a rewarding but challenging role.
This #NationalCarersWeek watch the stories of people who have walked in the same shoes. ‘Live the life you please’ boasts a treasure trove of incredible stories captured from all around Australia and is now available to rent and watch for a small fee ($7 – $12).
Narrator Simon Waring brings his own families experience to this, but along the way you will also meet Lance and Cecile and their MND story, David and Alice and their life with dementia, and Julie and Al and their story which has become known as ‘the husband in the handbag’.
Rent now and watch it over this weekend 👉 https://ow.ly/luKH50PYRlc Moonshine Agency
We pay tribute to the pioneer of palliative care in Victoria, Katherine Kingsbury, OAM.
Katherine laid the foundation for 40 years of palliative care in Australia and dedicated her life to caring and advocating for people at the end of their lives. She was integral in establishing Australia’s first palliative care service at Melbourne City Mission, and Banksia Palliative Care Service.
Over the years Katherine established new ways of symptom control and empowered patients to remain at home if they wished.
Katherine’s legacy will forever mark and inspire our work in palliative care. Read her story 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/story/palliative-matters-a-nurse-who-laid-the-foundation-for-40-years-of-palliative-care-in-australia/ Palliative Care Victoria
This National Carer’s Week Your Side is putting a spotlight on the often overlooked young carers of our community, who dedicate their time and energy to assist family members or friends with disabilities, mental health challenges, and life-limiting illnesses.
With over 235,000 young carers across Australia, it’s crucial we acknowledge their essential role in caregiving.
Meet Cheryl, a 9-year-old young carer and Ben, a 15-year-old young carer and listen to their story 👉 https://ow.ly/uecw50PXYXA
PCA and our care partners have a range of resources and support services available here: https://ow.ly/YZ6h50PXYXy Carers Australia
Shape the future of paediatric palliative care! PCA and PaPCANZ are undertaking a new paediatric palliative care project – Shaping the Future of Paediatric Palliative Care and your insights are essential to its success.
Join us on the journey to enhance care for infants, children, young people and their families.
Complete the survey to be part of improving workforce communication skills, developing clinical guidelines, improving transition to adult services, increasing access, and raising awareness.
Together let’s make a meaningful impact! Express your interest here 👉 https://ow.ly/1tMJ50PXWVy
Carers provide 2.2 billion hours of care each year and they do this for free. This National Carers Week let’s recognise the hard work and relentless dedication of Australia’s unpaid carers.
We encourage all carers to take time for themselves each week, but especially so this week. Your wellbeing is vital to the care you provide. PCA and our care partners have a range of resources and support services available here: https://palliativecare.org.au/im-a-carer/ Carers Australia
And if you know someone who’s a carer, take a moment and check in with them – carers need caring too. More 👉 https://carersweek.com.au/caring-for-carers/
#NCW2023 #NationalCarersWeek #CarersSupport #CarersAustralia #MillionsOfReasonsToCare
This World Hospice and Palliative Care Day we bring to you a perspective from the Pacific Islands – Dr Malama Tafuna’i’s inspiring advocacy for culturally appropriate palliative care for Pacific Island nations.
A well-deserved standing ovation at #23OPCC – Dr Tafuna’i talked about the misalignment between Western-based models of care and Samoan culture and care needs.
“We are working in and navigating through a health system that was not developed nor designed by us and not developed nor designed for us.”
Read the full story 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/story/dr-malama-tafunai-creating-culturally-appropriate-palliative-care-in-pacific-island-nations/
Updated teaching resources are now available to help primary and secondary schools better support children and families living with life limiting illness.
The result of a great partnership between Palliative Care Australia, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care ➡️ https://ow.ly/QSIr50PUTnf
“When a client dies it does impact them (the volunteer). They will go through their own grieving as they got to know someone and that person is gone, and then they will do it over again,” says Krystal Wallis, from EPC – Eastern Palliative Care talking to The Senior about her amazing group of volunteers.
Last month, the EPC volunteers team won Outstanding Achievement in Volunteering at the National Palliative Care Awards, well deserved! More ➡️ https://ow.ly/IPJR50PUpVo
Produced by multi-award-winning filmmakers, Moonshine Agency, ‘Live the life you please’ boasts a treasure trove of incredible stories captured from all around Australia.
“Palliative care has always been a subject that people are reluctant to speak about because it makes them sad, but if they were well informed like this movie does, it could actually make them feel better about it.”
The original 90 minute feature length film has been cut down to 30 minutes and is available now to watch on demand for as little as $7, you can also purchase a powerful educational package 👉 https://ow.ly/WOfc50POuqN
The magic of Old Peoples Home for Teenagers has returned to ABC TV + iview.
Prof Sue Kurrle, one of the creators of the series shared her passion for the show with us last month at #23OPCC, talking about the power of connection and community when it comes to improving quality of life and health outcomes for all generations but especially so for people towards the end of their life.
You can start by making paper planes this weekend! Watch and be inspired 👉 https://ow.ly/a4n550PTK0O
“The expectation that we can be immersed in suffering and loss daily, and not be touched by it, is as unrealistic as expecting to be able to walk through water without getting wet.” – Dr Rachel Naomi Remen, Kitchen Table Wisdom: Stories that Heal
The skill, dedication, and compassion of the palliative workforce is extraordinary. It’s rewarding work but it can take its toll.
Self-Care Matters is a PCA resource that aims to support you – whatever your role in palliative care – to prevent burnout and build resilience.
We totally understand that self-care is not ‘one size fits all’, but hope there’s something for you in it to start your self-care journey 👉 https://ow.ly/wU4150PTfzk
“Every GP who sees anyone aged over 70 is providing palliative care,” says Professor Geoffrey Mitchell.
Professor Mitchell recently won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 National Palliative Care Awards.
Apart from publishing 300 peer-reviewed papers, 40 books and various other publications, he is passionate about walking the journey with his patients and developing those invaluable friendships with families and people at the end of their lives.
Morgan Liotta caught up with Professor Geoff Mitchell to dig deeper into his passion for primary health and the role it can play in palliative care 👉 https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/professional/gp-honoured-for-outstanding-palliative-care RACGP
“After 40 traumatising days in ICU, Rio and his family were welcomed to a home away from home where they were given the care and support to be a family again.”
That home was Bear Cottage in Manly, one of only three children’s hospices in Australia. While Rio’s family received the care they needed in Rio’s final days, there are many Aussie families who miss out. Ryan and Karen, Rio’s parents are dedicated to change this, with that in mind Ryan has just walked, run, and cycled from Brisbane to western Sydney.
He crossed the finish line this morning, having raised $38K towards building Australia’s fourth children’s hospice- congratulations Ryan and Rio’s Legacy!
You can still chip in and help 👉 https://ow.ly/4zvB50PSg4p
Read Rio’s story here 👉 https://ow.ly/evpF50PSg4n
📷: 9Honey
The ELDAC – End of Life Directions for Aged Care Allied Health Toolkit is a valuable resource designed to enhance palliative care practice of allied health professionals in aged care.
ELDAC would like to hear what allied health professionals think about the toolkit, to understand how it is being used to support end-of-life care, and to identify ways to improve it.
Have your say 👉 https://www.eldac.com.au/tabid/7677/Default.aspx#evaluation
Imagine the challenges faced by families whose children are living with life-limiting conditions. The emotional, physical, and financial burdens can be overwhelming.
Currently, there are only 3 hospices/respite centres in Australia for children under the age of 18. This leaves many families without the specialised care they need.
Rio’s parents, Ryan and Karen, are journeying towards their vision to build a fourth children’s hospice in western Sydney and you can help!
Ryan is on a run/ride challenge from Brisbane to Sydney, with each step representing hope, compassion, and change. Chip in and sponsor a step today 👉 https://rioslegacy.grassrootz.com/rio-23-brisbane-to-sydney
There are two vacancies to join our passionate and dedicated team in Canberra!
Are you a numbers ninja with a knack for managing money matters and looking to use your skills to make a real difference? We have something for you!
PCA is looking for a Finance Manager on a part-time basis, 22.8 hours per week. Reporting to the CEO, you will be responsible for effectively and efficiently delivering the Corporate Services Function, leading and managing a small team, and supporting subcommittees and working groups.
We are also seeking an experienced Projects Administration Officer to join our small but mighty projects team. This is a part-time position – 22.8 hours per week. In this role, you will get a range of opportunities to liaise with different groups and bring together key stakeholders from across the palliative care, paediatric palliative care, and broader health care sectors, including Indigenous health representatives and consultants.
Applications close on Sunday, 15 October 2023. Find out more and apply 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/careers/
Are you still ‘feeling the love’ from the 2023 Oceanic Palliative Care Conference earlier this month in Sydney?
“The energy and the level of collaboration and enthusiasm we have for each other and our work has been really palpable and very moving,” says Rachel Coghlan.
What are the moments or reflections that have stuck with you? Press play on our wrap up of three powerful days together. Watch this space, we have a lot more to share from #23OPCC.
Palliative care helps people manage their symptoms, ensuring quality of life is maintained as illness progresses. Care is person centred and covers the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of the patient and their loved ones.
Advice, tools, and support ➡️ https://palliativecare.org.au/
#MattersOfLifeAndDeath 🧡
“I would say that the biggest misconception about palliative care is that it is about dying, when in fact it is about living well,” PCA Chair, Prof Meera Agar told Singapore Hospice Council for Hospice Link magazine.
“There is also the assumption that it is only for the last hours or days of life when it is so much more. Many also think it is only for people affected by cancer. I think health professionals often hold many of the same misperceptions as the community; after all, our experience of death and dying is very much shaped by our own personal experiences and attitudes.”
Catch up on the full article with Meera on pages 18 and 19, not to mention all the other great articles ➡️ https://ow.ly/2Agk50PPYsb
“Though his condition was diagnosed as terminal, Rio continued to inspire us all with his smile, fight and will to never give up,” says Ryan and Karen Folwer, Rio’s mum and dad.
Ryan and Karen bring that ‘never give up’ attitude to their vision to build a children’s hospice in western Sydney – only the fourth in Australia.
Ryan is currently walking, running, cycling from Brisbane to Sydney to raise funds, you can support him and Rio’s Legacy➡️ https://ow.ly/WYLi50PMAjO
#EveryStepCounts👣 #RiosLegacy
A dementia-friendly future is a future better for everyone in the community.
A recent research by Dementia Australia shows 81 per cent of those with a loved one living with dementia felt that people in shops, cafes and restaurants treated people with dementia differently.
This needs to change. This Dementia Action Week you can take a few simple actions to create a dementia-friendly future for all Australians.
Find out what you can do here 👉 https://www.dementia.org.au/dementia-action-week
Palliative Care Australia and Dementia Australia have framed nine recommendations to deliver better quality of life to people, families, and carers traveling life’s journey with dementia, more here 👉 https://palliativecare.org.au/mediarelease/dementia-and-palliative-care-meeting-the-need-in-australias-future/
Welcome to the last Thursdays@3 episode of Season 2!
Today, a deep dive into the Healthy End of Life Program HELP App of La Trobe University’s Public Health Palliative Care Unit.
HELP’s mission is to develop a collaborative end-of-life culture to meet people’s health and social needs – tapping into the capacity of community networks to add weight to care of health professionals and meeting the needs of palliative care patients and their families.
The HELP App which has launched in the last year is just part of the scaffolding around the program.
Dr Andrea Grindrod, is the Director of the Public Health Palliative Care Unit at La Trobe University and brings professional and very personal perspectives to her work and leadership of the HELP program.
Click play to learn more about ‘network centred care’.
Listen to the episode on Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/episode/1S1lzVMVHzjurQoe2VNLYA?si=47827fcbcd7549e7
More about HELP 👉 https://healthyendoflifeprogram.org/
For advice, tools, and support with ‘maters of life and death’ explore the Palliative Care Australia website 👉https://palliativecare.org.au/
You can support our work by making a donation 👉 https://donations.palliativecare.org.au/s/donation?id=a0S2t00000IO6pL
Ryan Fowler, part of the heart and soul of Rio’s Legacy, is chipping away at the 13 million steps he will take on his journey from Brisbane to Sydney.
Along the way Ryan is raising funds to support children with a life-limiting illness, his mission is to build a children’s hospice in western Sydney.
At the front of Ryan’s thinking is his son Rio, who died at 17 months after being diagnosed with an incredibly rare condition. Ryan and his wife Karen started Rio’s Legacy so that other families can better access the support of a hospice and palliative care – and make the most of the life that is left to live.
You can help the vision become a reality ➡️ https://ow.ly/B3KN50PO5W4
We are cheering you on Ryan!
#RiosLegacy #EveryStepCounts
Today is Childhood Dementia Day, a life limiting illness that 1 in 2,900 Australian families are coming to terms with. It’s a condition that will be new to many people, to raise awareness and understanding Brett and Sarah shared their experience with the TODAY show. Their approach to life and death is inspiring.
PCA’s recently launched Paediatric Palliative Care National Action Plan is inspired by families like Brett and Sarah’s. Read and download ➡️ https://ow.ly/ppxw50PNBMm
For more info and support about childhood dementia reach out to the Childhood Dementia Initiative ➡️ https://ow.ly/AvyS50PNBMo
“It’s also clear that the implementation of voluntary assisted dying across Australia is something people want to talk about, especially how palliative care can support those making that choice and how we as a sector support the doctors, nurses and allied health professional involved,” says Camilla Rowland, PCA, CEO.
Read our full wrap up of the Oceanic Palliative Care Conference ➡️ https://ow.ly/gh4350PNAo7
Were you one of our 1400 delegates? What did you take away from the experience?
#23OPCC
From now until October 3, Ryan Fowler from Rio’s Legacy is running and riding from Brisbane to Western Sydney to raise awareness and generate much needed funds to build a new children’s hospice in Western Sydney.
You can chip in and sponsor a step ➡️ https://ow.ly/WYLi50PMAjO
Together we will make a difference for children at the end of life and their families.
#EveryStepCounts👣 #RiosLegacy
Look out! Close to 1400 delegates are headed back to their communities after 3 days at the Oceanic Palliative Care Conference.
All leave with a commitment to build relationships across the health and care sectors, with an understanding of the power of co-designed systems and services, with a passion to empower community in the delivery of palliative care, and with some killer Zumba moves! Thanks Jo Doran.
A powerful moment in our community’s history and future. The words in the song sung by Salvation Jane and the 23OPCC choir sum it up.
Stay tuned for more from #23OPCC in the coming days and weeks.
Thank you to everyone who was there in person or watching on line – together we are strong.
See you in Brisbane in 2025!
Voluntary Assisted Dying has been one of the big conversations at #23OPCC.
“VAD can not be the solution for communities that don’t have good access to palliative care, health and community services,” Dr Pippa Blackburn.
“I am very committed to having a strong palliative care voice within the VAD process,” Helen Walker.
“Palliative Care is not VAD it sits alongside it. Palliative care has a lot to offer.”
“Our role is to show what we can do as palliative care physicians,” Dr Frank Brennan.
“I would be really sad to see a disconnection between palliative care and those who choose VAD.”
“I am very optimistic, in Victoria we are 4 years in and I’ve seen palliative care and VAD grow closer,” Dr Danielle Ferraro.
“All dying patients need palliative care but not all palliative care patients will choose VAD.
“I under estimated how much support we need as practitioners, it’s really hard work and takes a toll.”
#23OPCC – shaping stronger health systems.
A powerful morning exploring palliative care in aged care and dementia.
Dr Philippa Cahill paid tribute to her mum Rosemary, and her end of life experience in aged care, “I wondered how this might be for people with no family to care for them, and that concerns me until this day,” she said.
Dr Elissa Campbell from WA highlighted the work that needs to be done linking palliative care and dementia, “only 5% of people with dementia have access to specialist palliative care, if we improve palliative care for people with dementia we improve palliative care for everyone.”
And the session on ‘laughter care’ was a real highlight, A/Prof Michelle DiGiacomo and Paul Wilson AKA Archie the Clown, spoke about their work in residential aged care, “A clown has no status, I give those around me the authority, the clown says ‘yes’ and accepts the reality” – except when a clown calls God on a rubber chicken phone!
And from our lived experience panel discussing quality palliative care for an aging population, “Palliative care is everybody’s business. The passion and enthusiasm is evident through this conference and I believe there will be change,” Harpreet Kalsi-Smith said.
Over 1300 delegates are taking part in person and online! Thank you for your contributions.
#23OPCC
We networked, caught up with old friends and made some new!
The welcome reception last night was just what we needed to end a jam packed and insightful Day 1.
Day 2 at #23OPCC has begun and we are all set to start those important and empowering conversations.
Stay tuned and watch this space for more! 🧡
What a start to Day 1 of #23OPCC!
It has been rich, insightful and we even shed a tear (yes already).
Dr Malama Tafuna’i is here from Samoa, we heard her moving and impactful presentation on the intersection of culture and care needs. “Partners don’t tell us what’s wrong and then leave,” said Dr Malama.
Prof David Currow talked about the importance of early referrals to help people live as well as possible for as long as possible. “Is this person well enough to be referred to palliative care? – is a question we all need to ask,” said Prof Currow.
Dr Hsien Seow reinforced that sense of ‘nothing about me without me’ he said “Co-design helps a push become a pull.”
And great recognition from Prof Brendan Murphy, “I salute the palliative care community and the untold positive impact you have.”
Watch this space as we bring you everything #23OPCC LIVE from Sydney! Virtual registrations are still open 👉 https://www.oceanicpallcare.com/
Over 1300 delegates are strapped in for day one of the Oceanic Palliative Care Conference in Sydney.
“One thing we are in palliative care, we are optimistic,” says MC and palliative care doctor Jo Doran.
“We know we can make a difference.” The next 3 days are about that – making a difference.”
You can still join us 👉 https://www.oceanicpallcare.com/
#23OPCC
Some good weekend viewing from ABC TV + iview and Matt Okine.
In this TV special, Matt goes on a mission to demystify death. From adding ashes into fireworks, to dying in a simulator and creating an immortal digital clone of himself – he reveals the power in confronting death.
Watch ➡️ https://ow.ly/7vM250PJ61C
