Palliative care

Palliative care plays an important role in supporting people with a life-limiting illness, as well as their families and carers. It focuses on comfort, dignity and quality of life, helping people access coordinated care and support that reflects their individual needs, values and preferences.

Directory and resources

Are you a carer? quiz

Palliative care resources

Murrumbidgee palliative care directory

Murrumbidgee palliative care directory

Accessing palliative care and respite

  • Respite care provides short-term support for a person with care needs and gives their carer time to attend everyday activities, rest or take a planned break. Depending on eligibility and local availability, respite may be provided at home, through a day centre, in overnight accommodation or in a residential aged care home.

    • Emergency respite may be arranged through Carer Gateway.

    • Community-based respite may include in-home care or centre-based day respite.

    • Residential respite provides a short stay in an aged care home and may be accessed through My Aged Care or other eligible funding arrangements.

    Phone: 1800 422 737

    Website: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/

  • The care finder Program is a free service for vulnerable older people who need intensive assistance to access aged care and other supports, and who do not have a family member or friend able to help. Care finders can assist eligible people to understand, access and navigate My Aged Care and relevant local health and community services.

    Eligibility checker: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/should-i-apply/requirements-checker

    Berrigan, Edward River and Jerilderie: 1800 864 846

    Other Murrumbidgee areas: 1300 418 223

    Website: https://www.marathonhealth.com.au/

  • My Aged Care is the Australian Government entry point for aged care information, assessments and services. It can explain available services, arrange an assessment, provide referrals to approved providers and outline possible fees or contributions.

    A person seeking palliative care support should explain their circumstances when applying for an assessment. Eligible older people who are approaching the end of life may be considered for the Support at Home End-of-Life Pathway, which provides higher-level in-home support.

    • The person may apply online or by phone.

    • An assessor may arrange an in-person assessment, usually in the person’s home.

    • The person should have identification, relevant referrals, medication and health information, and contact details for their GP or other health professionals available.

    • A registered supporter, interpreter or other communication assistance may be requested.

    Phone: 1800 200 422

    Website: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/

    Support at Home: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/support-at-home

  • A person may arrange private home care directly with a provider on a fee-for-service basis. The My Aged Care provider search can be used to identify services operating in the person’s area.

    Find a provider: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/find-a-provider

  • The Murrumbidgee Local Health District Specialist Palliative Care Service supports people with complex needs to live as fully and comfortably as possible while experiencing a life-limiting or terminal illness. Support may be provided at home, in hospital or in a care facility while the person continues other treatment.

    The multidisciplinary team may include specialist nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dietitians and Aboriginal health support workers. The team works with the person, family, carers and other health professionals to manage physical, emotional, social and spiritual concerns.

    A referral from a treating doctor or community nurse is preferred but is not essential. Another person may make a referral with the person’s consent.

    Phone: 1800 654 324

    Email: MLHD-CCIS@health.nsw.gov.au

    Website: https://www.mlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/our-services/palliative-care

  • The Community Care Intake Service provides information about local community health services and accepts self-referrals and referrals from GPs, doctors and other service providers. Services may include community nursing, palliative care nursing, allied health, counselling, diabetes education, respiratory care and other community supports.

    Phone: 1800 654 324

    Email: MLHD-CCIS@health.nsw.gov.au

  • A general practitioner can coordinate general palliative care, manage symptoms, support advance care planning and end-of-life care, and work with specialist palliative care services. The GP can refer the person to a multidisciplinary specialist team when symptoms or care needs become complex.

    The person or carer should ask the GP whether the practice provides after-hours support and how urgent concerns should be managed outside normal opening hours. NSW residents receiving palliative care, their carers and families can also contact 1800MEDICARE for free nurse advice at any time.

    1800MEDICARE: 1800 633 422

Hospitals, hospice and clinical services

  • Calvary Riverina Hospital’s Specialist Palliative Care Unit provides inpatient care to public and private patients who require specialist palliative care. Admissions may support complex symptom management, end-of-life care or short-term respite.

    Patients are admitted under a specialist physician and supported by a multidisciplinary team that may include nursing, allied health, medical and pastoral care staff. Referrals may be made by a GP, medical specialist or the Murrumbidgee Local Health District Community Palliative Care Service.

    • Acute palliative care assessment

    • Pain, medication and symptom management

    • Short-term respite care

    • General clinical and nursing care

    • Social work and pastoral care support

    Location: Ground floor, Calvary Riverina Hospital, 20 Hardy Avenue, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6923 2200

    Availability: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

    Website: https://www.calvarycare.org.au/riverina-private-hospital/

  • The Riverina Cancer Care Centre is a comprehensive cancer treatment facility on the Calvary Riverina Hospital campus. It provides radiation therapy and chemotherapy to public and private patients, together with access to nursing, allied health and cancer support services.

    Patients should ask about fees before appointments, tests or treatment and confirm any Medicare or private health insurance rebate. Initial treatment referrals are generally made by a GP or treating specialist. Patients should bring their referral, medication list and relevant imaging or test results.

    • Cancer care coordination and oncology social work

    • Dietetic, speech pathology and palliative care nursing support

    • Specialist cancer nurses and support groups

    • Local transport assistance and volunteer support, where available

    Address: 31 Meurant Avenue, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6932 1000

    Hours: Monday to Friday, 7.30 am to 5.00 pm

    Website: https://www.calvarycare.org.au/riverina-private-hospital/services-and-clinics/cancer-care/

  • The Forrest Centre Hospice is a residential palliative care facility located at Mary Potter Nursing Home in Wagga Wagga. It provides respite and longer-term end-of-life care for people who cannot be cared for in an acute hospital or at home.

    The hospice has 10 private rooms with ensuites, family spaces and facilities that allow a family member to stay overnight. It provides 24-hour nursing care, palliative care-trained staff, multidisciplinary support, pastoral care and activities that support quality of life.

    Referrals may be made by doctors, hospital liaison staff, community palliative care nurses, aged care assessment teams, family members, friends or the person seeking care.

    Address: Lewisham Avenue, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6932 3011

    Email: admin@forrestcentre.com.au

    Website: https://forrestcentre.com.au/

  • Mercy Health Albury provides specialist palliative care services for people living with an advanced or life-limiting illness. The service supports people to achieve the best possible quality of life by addressing their physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.

    The Palliative Care Centre provides:

    • a community palliative care program that supports people to remain at home

    • a 10-bed inpatient unit, including a family stay unit

    • specialist palliative medicine consultation

    • 24-hour support from specialist palliative care nurses

    • allied health, pastoral care, bereavement and volunteer support

    • the Creative Living Centre, which provides social and emotional support through activities and connection

    • clinical leadership, education and support for health professionals across the region.

    Referrals may be made by health professionals, community service providers, carers, relatives or friends. People may also refer themselves. Referrals may be made for an initial assessment following the diagnosis of an incurable illness or for ongoing palliative care support.

    Address: Level 4, Mercy Health Albury, 550 Poole Street, Albury NSW 2640
    Palliative care enquiries and support: 02 6042 1410
    Main reception: 02 6042 1400
    Website: https://health-services.mercyhealth.com.au/service/palliative-care-albury/

  • Wagga Wagga Base Hospital provides acute hospital services, including a 24-hour emergency department, critical care, medical, surgical, paediatric, obstetric, rehabilitation and allied health services.

    Palliative care in the community is supported by GPs and specialist palliative care nurses. Inpatient palliative care is supported by the admitting medical practitioner and clinical team, with additional specialist palliative care nursing support where required. Public patients may be transferred to Calvary Riverina Hospital for inpatient palliative care when clinically appropriate.

    Address: Edward Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 5943 1000

    Website: https://www.mlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/our-facilities/wagga-wagga-health-service

  • NSW Ambulance paramedics can provide assessment, symptom management and compassionate support for palliative care patients in the community. Where required and consistent with the person’s care plan and preferred place of care, paramedics may transport the person to hospital.

    It is helpful for the person to have an advance care plan or directive, a current medication list, recent discharge information and a letter or plan from the palliative care clinician available. Triple Zero should be used for emergencies.

    Emergency: 000

    Website: https://www.ambulance.nsw.gov.au/our-services/palliative-care

  • Patient Transport Service provides non-emergency transport to or from a health facility for people who are medically unsuitable for community, public or private transport. Eligibility must be assessed by a medical practitioner or registered nurse, and bookings can only be made by an authorised health professional or facility.

    Website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pts/Pages/info-for-patients.aspx

Cancer and condition-specific support

Accommodation, travel and transport

  • Lilier Lodge provides accommodation for people travelling to Wagga Wagga for cancer treatment at nearby facilities, including the Riverina Cancer Care Centre, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and Calvary Riverina Hospital. When vacancies permit, accommodation may be available for other medical appointments.

    The 21-room self-care facility includes guest laundry facilities, a communal kitchen and lounge, Wi-Fi, linen, weekly room servicing and continental breakfast. Volunteer transport may be available.

    Address: 317–321 Edward Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6925 5240

    Website: https://canassist.org.au/lilier-lodge/

  • Ronald McDonald House Charities supports families with a seriously ill or injured child by providing accommodation and other practical supports near participating hospitals. Services and eligibility vary by location.

    Website: https://www.rmhc.org.au/

  • Description text goes here

  • Can Assist provides practical and financial support to people in rural and regional NSW who are affected by cancer. The Wagga Wagga branch may assist with accommodation and other treatment-related costs, subject to eligibility and available resources.

    Phone: 0475 202 663

    Email: wagga@canassist.org.au

    Website: https://canassist.org.au/branches/wagga-wagga/

  • IPTAAS provides NSW Government financial assistance towards travel and accommodation when a person must travel long distances for specialist treatment that is not available locally.

    Eligibility generally requires the person to live in NSW, be enrolled in Medicare, attend the nearest approved health service and travel at least 100 kilometres one way, or at least 200 kilometres in one week through multiple trips. Other eligibility conditions apply. Assistance may be available for private vehicle travel, public transport, taxis or rideshare, air travel in special circumstances and accommodation.

    Phone: 1800 478 227

    Email: IPTAAS@health.nsw.gov.au

    Apply online: https://www.iptaas.health.nsw.gov.au/apply-online

    Website: https://www.iptaas.health.nsw.gov.au/

  • Community transport providers offer specialised transport for eligible older people, people with disability and people who are transport-disadvantaged. Availability and eligibility vary by local government area. The person should contact the relevant local provider or council for options in their area.

  • The Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme assists eligible NSW residents who cannot use public transport because of a severe and permanent disability. Approved participants may receive a subsidy of 50 per cent of the taxi fare, up to the scheme maximum. Medical certification and other application requirements apply.

    Website: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-for-the-taxi-transport-subsidy-scheme

Carer, practical and community support

  • Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program providing free services and support for unpaid carers. Services may include peer support, counselling, coaching, skills courses, tailored support packages, planned respite and emergency respite.

    Phone: 1800 422 737

    Website: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/

  • Carers NSW is the peak non-government organisation for carers in NSW. It provides information, education, training, advocacy and support for carers and organisations that work with carers.

    Phone: 02 9280 4744

    Website: https://www.carersnsw.org.au/

  • Meals on Wheels supports eligible people to remain living independently at home by providing meals, social connection and wellbeing checks. Local services, menus, fees and eligibility vary. Government-supported access may be available through aged care or disability programs.

    Phone: 1300 679 669

    Website: https://nswmealsonwheels.org.au/

  • Carevan Wagga provides free community meals and social connection for people experiencing homelessness, disadvantage, social isolation or food insecurity. Meal locations and operating dates may change and should be confirmed before attending.

    Website: https://carevanwagga.org.au/

  • The Vinnies Micah Hub provides face-to-face support and referrals for people who need financial, food or material assistance.

    Address: 53 Gurwood Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6923 1904

    Vinnies assistance line: 13 18 12

    Email: svdpwagga@vinnies.org.au

    Website: https://www.vinnies.org.au/nsw/find-help

  • The Salvation Army’s Wagga Wagga services may provide low-cost pantry items, donated goods and support through local Doorways and community programs. Available services and opening hours should be confirmed directly.

    Address: 180 Forsyth Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Phone: 02 6931 0271

    Website: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/locations/new-south-wales/wagga-wagga/

Financial, legal and government support

  • No Interest Loans provide access to safe, affordable credit for eligible people on low incomes. Loans are generally available for essential goods and services and are not cash loans. Eligibility and approved uses apply.

    Phone: 13 64 57

    Find a provider: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/find-a-no-interest-loans-scheme-nils-provider

  • Superannuation may be accessed early only in limited circumstances, including a terminal medical condition, incapacity, severe financial hardship or approved compassionate grounds. For release on terminal medical condition grounds, two registered medical practitioners must certify that the illness or injury is likely to result in death within 24 months, and at least one practitioner must be a relevant specialist.

    The person should contact their superannuation fund about the required evidence and application process.

    Australian Taxation Office information: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/withdrawing-and-using-your-super/early-access-to-super

  • The Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides eligible current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families with health, compensation, income and practical supports. Eligible veterans may receive palliative care at home, in hospital or in residential aged care through funded providers.

    Phone: 1800 838 372

    Website: https://www.dva.gov.au/

  • A person with a life-limiting illness, or a person providing ongoing care, may be eligible for Services Australia payments or concessions. These may include Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, Carer Allowance, Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card. Eligibility, medical evidence and income or assets tests may apply.

    Terminal illness verification form: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/sa494

    Support for carers: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/getting-payment-if-youre-carer

  • Anglicare NSW West provides free and confidential financial counselling across the Murray, Riverina, Snowy Valleys and Goulburn regions. Financial counsellors can assess a person’s circumstances, explain options, negotiate with creditors, provide ongoing support and assist with debt and insolvency matters.

    Phone: 02 6937 1555

    Email: referralsfc@anglicare.com.au

    Website: https://www.anglicare.com.au/what-we-offer/financial-counselling/

  • NSW Trustee and Guardian provides will-making, estate administration, trustee, financial management and guardianship services. Fees and eligibility depend on the service required.

    General enquiries: 1300 109 290

    Wagga Wagga office: 1300 102 030

    Address: 176 Baylis Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

    Website: https://www.tag.nsw.gov.au/

  • An Advance Care Directive records a person’s decisions, values and preferences for future healthcare if they become unable to make or communicate decisions. In NSW, a person does not have to use a specific form, but the directive should be clear, signed and dated. It may include treatment instructions, values and preferences, and details of an enduring guardian or person responsible.

    The person should discuss the directive with their substitute decision-maker, family, GP and treating team and provide copies to relevant health services.

    NSW Health information and form: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/patients/acp/Pages/acd-form-info-book.aspx

    Advance Care Planning Australia: https://www.advancecareplanning.org.au/

Medicines, equipment and health information