State Parliament lights up for Palliative Care Week

Queensland State Parliament will be lit up in navy and maroon from Monday night to mark National Palliative Care Week (Sunday 23 May – Saturday 29 May).

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the week aimed to raise awareness about the importance of quality palliative care.

“Sadly, in our lifetime we will all know a friend, loved one or colleague that is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness,” the Minister said.

“It is important that these people can get the support they need when they need it, to manage their illness.

“Queensland’s palliative carers do an amazing job caring for individuals and their loved ones through these tough times.

“I want to acknowledge the work these staff do and the important service they provide to Queenslanders in their time of need.

“In recognition of the care they provide, State Parliament will turn navy and maroon for three nights during Palliative Care Week.”

Minister D’Ath said the Palaszczuk Government was increasing its investment in palliative care services.

“Since coming to office in 2015, we’ve increased funding for palliative care to almost $150 million a year, or around 50 per cent,” she said.

“The government is also providing $12.9 million a year to non-government organisations to deliver palliative care services in the community.

“We’ve also committed an extra $171 million for statewide palliative care funding.

“The extra funding we’re delivering will employ more frontline palliative care workers along with more home-based hospice care.

“It will allow more people to spend their final days at home or in a home-like setting, surrounded by loved ones, in a familiar place.”

For more information on National Palliative Care Week, visit https://palliativecareqld.org.au/npcw/

Media contact: Martin Philip 0407 675 008