End-of-Life Pathway
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Compassionate Support When It Matters Most
The End-of-Life Pathway is a dedicated part of the Support at Home program, designed to provide fast, additional support for older Australians during the final stage of life.
If a person has been diagnosed with a life expectancy of three months or less, they may be eligible for urgent funding and care services. Support can include personal care, household assistance, and general nursing, while also complementing existing government-funded palliative care services.
In many cases, a priority assessment can help people access this pathway quickly, even if they’re not currently receiving services through the Support at Home program.
If you or a loved one needs compassionate end-of-life support, the End-of-Life Pathway can help connect you with the care and services needed during this important time.
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Flexible Funding for End-of-Life Care
Through the End-of-Life Pathway, eligible individuals can receive up to $25,000 in funding over 12 weeks to help cover additional care and support at home. Where funding remains, it may continue to be used for up to 16 weeks, allowing more flexibility as care needs change.
This funding replaces any other funding you may currently receive through My Aged Care.
Depending on your individual needs, support can include:
- Clinical and allied health care, including nursing, occupational therapy and physiotherapy
- Personal and daily care, such as assistance with showering, dressing, medication, transport and respite care
- Help around the home, including cleaning, gardening, grocery shopping and meal preparation
Upcoming Changes to End-of-Life Care Funding
From early 2027, the Australian Government intends to expand support for people whose end-of-life care needs continue beyond the initial 12-week funding period.
Under the planned changes, eligible participants may receive a second allocation of funding. This additional support is intended to help maintain continuity of care and give older people and their families greater reassurance that essential services can continue when they’re needed for longer.
How the End-of-Life Pathway Works
Once you’re approved for the End-of-Life Pathway, you’ll receive a tailored support plan and an allocated care budget. You can then provide these details to your preferred care provider so they can arrange the support you need.
Depending on your individual circumstances, you may also be eligible for separate funding towards assistive technology, equipment or other products that can help with your comfort, safety and day-to-day care.
Your chosen provider will work closely with you and your family to create a personalised care plan, organise suitable services and coordinate your care based on your changing needs.
If you’re already receiving Support at Home services, your existing provider can discuss whether they’re able to continue supporting you under the End-of-Life Pathway.
The pathway is generally available once per person. If you still require care after your End-of-Life Pathway support ends, your provider can request an urgent Support Plan Review to explore appropriate ongoing services through the Support at Home program.
Accessing the End-of-Life Pathway
To qualify for the End-of-Life Pathway, you generally need to be 65 years or older, or 50 years or older if you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.
As part of the eligibility process, a doctor or nurse practitioner must complete the required End-of-Life Pathway form. This confirms that:
- Your estimated life expectancy is three months or less
- You spend more than 50% of your time in bed, in line with the pathway’s assessment requirements
Once the form has been completed, you can request a high-priority assessment through My Aged Care. You can do this by calling 1800 200 422, submitting an application online, visiting an Aged Care Specialist Officer, or asking a healthcare professional to arrange an assessment on your behalf.
If You Already Receive Palliative Care
The End-of-Life Pathway can work alongside state-funded palliative care services, so you may be able to receive both at the same time if you’re eligible.
This can include support such as symptom management and advance care planning.
If you need palliative care services, speak with your GP or healthcare professional for guidance and support.
If You Already Access Voluntary Assisted Dying Services
Accessing voluntary assisted dying services does not prevent you from receiving support through the End-of-Life Pathway.
The same application process and eligibility requirements apply.
Understanding the Costs
Because the End-of-Life Pathway operates within the Support at Home program, you may be asked to contribute towards certain services related to independence and everyday living, depending on your circumstances.
Clinical care is fully funded by the Australian Government, meaning you won’t be required to make a contribution towards eligible clinical support provided through the program.
The amount you may need to contribute can vary based on the services you receive and your individual circumstances.
Additional End-of-Life Care and Support
The End-of-Life Pathway may not meet every care need. If additional assistance is required, there are other services that can provide support based on your health, circumstances and personal preferences.
Other care options may include:
- General or specialist palliative care to help manage symptoms, comfort and quality of life
- Residential aged care support where ongoing care in an aged care home is more suitable
- Advance care and end-of-life planning to ensure your wishes, values and preferences are understood and respected
Support isn’t limited to the person receiving care. Family members and carers may also be able to access counselling, peer support, grief services and bereavement resources during and after this period.