Major projects

Connect with the National Palliative Care Programs and Initiatives

In February 2019 the Australian Government released an updated National Palliative Care Strategy 2018. The new strategy builds on the previous 2010 National Palliative Care Strategy and its evaluation in 2016 (1.30MB pdf), and was developed through extensive consultation with government and community members. The 2018 National Palliative Care Strategy has six guiding principles, which are identified as fundamental to ensure that all people experience the palliative care they need.

The guiding principles are:

• Palliative care is person-centred care
• Death is a part of life
• Carers are valued and receive the care they need
• Care is accessible
• Everyone has a role to play in palliative care
• Care is high quality and evidence-based

There are also seven Strategy goal areas relating to priority areas:

Understanding:

People understand the benefits of palliative care, know where and how to access services, and are involved in decisions about their own care.

Capability:

Knowledge and practice of palliative care is embedded in all care settings.

Access and choice:

People affected by life-limiting illnesses receive care that matches their needs and preferences.

Collaboration:

Everyone works together to create a consistent experience of palliative care across care settings.

Investment:

A skilled workforce and systems are in place to deliver palliative care in any setting.

Data and evidence:

Robust national data and a strong research agenda strengthen and improve palliative care.

Accountability:

National governance of this Strategy drives action.

In support of the strategy the Australian Government funds a range of initiatives and programs. Details of these are provided in these pages and can also be found on the Department of Health program overview page. Many of these are also CareSearch Partner projects.