Location and context can influence care
Palliative care can be provided by many different health and care staff and in many different places. In a hospital setting it is provided by doctors, palliative specialists, nurses and allied health professionals. In the community the palliative care team might include the person’s GP, community and aged care nurses, visiting allied health professionals, careworkers and support workers. Children and young adults, older people and people from different backgrounds can all have palliative care needs. The care context and the settings of care can all have an influence on knowledge needs , care provision and good practice.
Acute care
Acute care responds to life-threatening emergencies and acute exacerbation of chronic illnesses.
Aged care
Providing care for older people coming to the end of their life is a critical part of aged care.
Primary health care
Primary health care is the first point of contact with the health system for patients and communities.
Specialist palliative care
Palliative care services have teams with specialised skills, competencies, experience, and training.
Paediatric
Paediatric palliative care aims to provide the best quality of life for the baby, child or young adult and their family.
Providing inclusive care
Inclusive care considers all the background and diversity of groups.
Understanding Diverse Populations
Different population groups can have different needs.
After hours contacts for clinicians
States and Territories have telephone services to enable health professionals to access palliative care specialist support.
Last updated 03 June 2026