The end of National Palliative Care Week has concluded a week of large-scale conversations about access to services.
This year’s theme ‘Getting to the heart of it: Big Questions. Real Answers’, has seen a comprehensive response, with a variety of events and downloadable resources being engaged across the country.
Palliative Care Australia representatives in NSW hosted a ‘Professional Education Day’ to discuss advancements in models of care and pain management classes.
Palliative Care Australia Interim CEO, Simon Waring said in a media release that the campaign’s engagement levels signal how people are ready to have more open and honest conversations about end-of-life care.
“That level of engagement tells us Australians want clear, practical information about palliative care, what it is, when it can help, and how to talk about it,” Mr Waring said.
“Too many Australians are still missing out on palliative care or accessing it too late… starting conversations earlier makes a real difference.
“It helps people plan ahead, reduces uncertainty, and ensures care reflects what matters most.”
Over the past decade, Australian citizens have engaged with palliative care services at a rising rate.
Between 2015-16 and 2023-24, palliative care-related hospitalisations increased at a rate of 4.9 per cent annually: double the rate of general hospitalisations.
David Berry Hospital nurse, sister Janet Harris, 65, said it reflects what she calls an explosion of end-of-life care options, which has placed additional strain on palliative care nurses.
“We get people basically hammering on our door, desperate to get in, and we’re having to send them all away… I guess once we’re full, then there’s nothing more you can do about it,” Ms Harris said.
“People who might have gone from a hospital bed to a nursing home can’t do so. There’s no room, so they come via us.
“We are getting the overflow from hospitals while they wait for a nursing home.”
According to Palliative Care Australia, only 38 per cent of those who die of a life-limiting illness receive palliative care.
There are 71 per cent of palliative care nurses working in major cities, suggesting a significant shortage of nurses in rural areas.
Sister Harris said the highlight of her 40-year career is being able to offer high-quality care.
“The joy in working in palliative care is being able to offer people compassion, hope and understanding, and to make end of life less frightening, to make it smoother… 50 per cent of palliative care is spiritual guidance,” she said.
“You can only do that when you have enough staff.”
Following the recent Federal Budget announcements, it is expected that support will improve for the Palliative Care Sector.
Additional reporting: Giancarlo Gonzales, Rachael Gregory, and Jade Daly
Feature Image: Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
