(This was first posted on June 12 at 8.33pm.)

Fantastic news – NSW is increasing funding for palliative care by $100 million.

“An extra $100 million will be pumped into palliative care over four years, including funding to employ new specialists and train 300 nurses and allied health staff.”

That’s how The Daily Telegraph announced new funds for palliative care today.

“The state will also invest in 300 scholarships to boost skills in the field of palliative care, as well as spending almost $7 million on services in Western Sydney that will include a 24-hour, even day a week on-call specialist palliative care service at home,” it said.

The package was praised by Palliative Care NSW president Therese Smeal, who said regional and remote parts of the state will be major beneficiaries.

Fast forward to 2021 and the Victorian government launched The Palliative Care Advice Service (PCAS).

It is a free and confidential service for anyone seeking information, guidance or support to help them live with, and make decisions about, life-limiting illness.

Delivered by The Royal Melbourne Hospital, the state-wide Palliative Care Advice Service operates from 7am- 10pm, seven days a week and can be contacted on 1800 360 000 or www.pcas.org.au.