Meaningful conversations during Advance Care Planning Week

During National Advance Care Planning Week (17–23 March), South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) residents came together to participate in a series of thought-provoking community workshops focused on what matters most at the end of life.

More than 50 local residents joined the events held across Waverley, Randwick and the Sutherland Shire. The Advance Care Planning Workshops, led by SESLHD staff, gave community members the opportunity to explore their personal values, health preferences, and how best to communicate them with loved ones and health professionals. The workshops were described by attendees as engaging, respectful and inspiring.

Advance care planning involves shared planning for your future health care needs. It is a voluntary and ongoing process. It enables people to make decisions now about the health care they would, or would not, like to receive if unable to communicate their preferences or make treatment decisions. Advance care planning is more than a document — it's an ongoing conversation.

 “Better outcomes are consistently experienced when these discussions start early, while a person is medically stable and supported by their family or carer,” said Dr Kelly Li, Nephrologist at St George Hospital.

Dr Li is the lead author of a 2023 study published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care which showed that advance care planning documents, when used effectively, can strongly align care with patient preferences at end of life.

“Advance Care Planning discussions are for everyone, not just the elderly or those living with chronic illness. They are a gift to those we love, helping ensure our wishes are known and respected, no matter what lies ahead.”

To learn more about advance care planning, how to start the conversation, or to access resources, visit advancecareplanning.org.au.

Published 14 April 2025