Prof. Jennifer Tieman1, Dr Raechel Damarell1
1Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
Biography:
Professor Jennifer Tieman is a Matthew Flinders Professor and the inaugural Director of the Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying (RePaDD) a specialist research centre of Flinders University. She leads a series of national research and practice projects around palliative care, ageing, caring, dying, and grieving.
Abstract:
Background:
End-of-life care is a fundamental aspect of the services provided by the aged care sector. With the introduction of strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards commencing in November 2025 aged care staff are required to upskill to meet evolving practice expectations. This includes a specific outcome related to palliative and end-of-life care.
palliAGED is a National Palliative Care Project (NPCP) that provides evidence-based palliative care knowledge tailored to aged care. Exploring the preparedness and knowledge gaps in aged care workers will help NPCPs understand how to enhance workforce capability in the transition to the new Standards.
Aims:
–To investigate how palliAGED resources are accessed, used, and valued by aged care staff across roles and settings
–To explore the impact of palliAGED resources and understand where this impact occurs
–To identify gaps and opportunities to strengthen the relevance, usability, and alignment of palliAGED resources.
Methods:
A multi-methods design explored the perspectives of aged care staff and Palliative Aged Care Network (PACN) members across varied roles, settings, and Australian regions. Data were collected through interviews (n = 18), a focus group (n = 9), and surveys (n = 8), focusing on the use, value, and impact of palliAGED resources. Data were analysed using an inductive approach.
Findings:
Key findings from the study were:
-Value and integration of palliAGED resources
-Enhanced workforce capability and care consistency
-Driving organisational and cultural change
-Complementarity with other national initiatives
-Gaps in awareness and accessibility
-Sector appetite for updated and inclusive resources
-Sustaining sector impact through engagement and partnership
Discussion:
palliAGED resources helped prepare organisations for the new Standards by informing policy updates, encouraging team reflection, and embedding palliative care across delivery. However, knowledge gaps persisted, including structured training sessions and specialised material for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.