Funding to expand at-home palliative care program

Of the 160,000 people who die in Australia each year, it is estimated that 50-90 per cent would benefit from receiving palliative care in the period leading up to their death.

More than $37 million will be provided to the 31 Primary Health Networks across the nation to expand the Greater Choice for At Home Palliative Care program.

"We've already seen a successful pilot program across 11 Primary Health Network sites, linking end-of-life care systems and services in primary and community care settings and increasing community awareness of local palliative care services," said Health Minister Greg Hunt.

"Our latest investment will ensure Australians can access appropriate care at the right time at home, while also aiming to reduce hospitalisation for palliative care."

Mr Hunt said $19 million will go towards three programs at the University of Wollongong and Queensland University of Technology, to improve end-of-life care in residential aged care.

The University of Wollongong will receive $8.9 million for the Palliative Aged Care Outcomes Program to help residential aged care facilities identify residents and their families in need of palliative care support, and enable care that is responsive, timely and meets their individual needs.

Queensland University of Technology will receive $10.1 million for two projects, including the Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach, which will provide targeted palliative care education and training on site to aged care providers and staff.

The QUT End of Life Directions for Aged Care Linkages program will also be expanded to build workforce capacity and develop and improve co-ordination across the primary care, aged care and palliative care sectors.