The NSW Government is committing $3 million to improve health outcomes for patients, carers and families with end-of-life and palliative care needs in NSW.

The funding for The End of Life and Palliative Care Research Grant Program aims to translate research projects into practical benefits and support collaboration between NSW Health, research institutes, community organisations, non-government organisations and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Eligible agencies will receive up to $300,000 over three years for smaller-scale research projects and up to $600,000 for larger-scale research activity.

Recipients of the funding will conduct research in the following priority areas:

• Pharmacological and non-pharmacological management for patients
• Collaborative care models to improve experience
• Culturally and socially inclusive care for Aboriginal, culturally and linguistically diverse, and LGBTIQ+ patients, carers, families and communities 
• Psychosocial support for grief, loss and bereavement for patients, carers, families and communities. 

The Program will run a competitive application process to identify research projects. Expressions of Interest applications open on 14 February 2025 and will close on 23 March 2025.

More information can be found on the NSW Health website here: NSW Health End of Life and Palliative Care Research Grant Program.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “The Minns Labor Government is committed to improving the comfort and experience of people with life-limiting illnesses during what is an extremely challenging time for patients and their families.

“I am proud to announce this initiative, which reaffirms our commitment and aims to translate projects into tangible benefits for people with end of life and palliative care needs in NSW.”

Minister for Medical Research David Harris said, “I am pleased our Government is committing funding for research and innovation that is so critical to improving the experiences of palliative care and end of life patients and the community. 

“I appreciate all the hard work and collaboration efforts to implement this fantastic initiative.

“Importantly, these priority research areas have been informed through extensive consultation with the NSW palliative care sector, including clinicians, policy managers, academics and advocacy groups.”