As part of the Support at Home reforms beginning 1 July 2025, a new End-of-Life Pathway will be available to provide urgent, enhanced support for older people who are approaching the end of their life and wish to remain at home. This pathway gives families the opportunity to honour their loved one’s preferences for comfort and dignity at home during their final months.
Key Details of the End-of-Life Pathway
- Eligibility Criteria:
A person must have an estimated life expectancy of less than 3 months, confirmed by their GP or nurse practitioner, along with a Karnofsky score of 40 or lower. - Funding and Timeframe:
Participants receive up to $25,000 in aged care funding for use over a 12-week period. The funding can be accessed for up to 16 weeks to allow for flexibility in care delivery. - What the Funds Can Be Used For:
Clients can use this support to access any services available under the Support at Home program, such as:- Nursing care
- Help with bathing, dressing, and mobility
- Meal preparation and light housekeeping
- Respite for carers
- Assistive technology (for example, pressure care beds)
Note: New home modifications are not included unless arrangements were already underway.
- Working With Health Services:
This pathway adds to—not replaces—care provided by Queensland Health’s palliative teams. Government health services will still manage advanced symptom control and care planning, while the Support at Home funding helps meet daily care needs.
What Happens if You’re Already on a Home Care Package?
If you’re currently receiving services under a Home Care Package, you’ll shift into the End-of-Life Pathway through a streamlined process without losing your existing supports. The pathway is designed to enhance care, not interrupt it.
What It Means for Sunshine Coast Clients
- Your Existing Palliative Care Team Stays Involved:
Queensland Health palliative services will continue to support your clinical needs. - Increased Home-Based Support:
With the additional $25,000, clients can receive more hours of care and extra services to stay comfortable at home. - Family-Centred Coordination:
Our Sunshine Coast team will collaborate with all parties—families, doctors, and health teams—to make sure every aspect of care is handled with compassion and professionalism.
How to Get Started
- Medical Approval:
The process begins with your doctor or nurse completing the End-of-Life Pathway Form. - My Aged Care Application:
- If you’re already in the Support at Home program, your provider will help submit a high-priority Support Plan Review.
- If you’re new to the program, you’ll be referred for an expedited aged care assessment to access the pathway.
- Plan in Place:
Once approved, a personalised care plan will be developed and reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing suitability.
One-Time Access, Timely Support
The End-of-Life Pathway is available only once. If someone’s condition improves or they live beyond the anticipated timeframe, they will be reassessed and reclassified under Support at Home. This ensures care remains aligned with the person’s evolving needs.
We’re Here for You – Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast
Supporting clients and their families with grace and dignity is our highest priority. Our Sunshine Coast team will:
- Help with eligibility and referral steps
- Create care plans tailored to your values and needs
- Coordinate with healthcare providers and support systems
- Offer gentle, understanding support every step of the way
To learn more about the End-of-Life Pathway or to speak with a member of our team, please get in touch. We’re here to support you during this important time.