Advance Care Planning
Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a process that helps people think about, discuss and document their preferences for future health care. It can include:
- talking about values, goals and what matters most
- identifying a substitute decision‑maker
- documenting wishes in an Advance Care Directive
- sharing ACP documents with carers, family and health professionals
ACP is helpful for anyone, but especially for people living with chronic illness, frailty or conditions that may affect decision‑making in the future.
How carers can support planning ahead
Carers may help by:
- starting conversations early
- encouraging the person to think about what matters most
- helping document preferences
- sharing ACP documents with health professionals
- ensuring copies are kept in easy‑to‑find places
- updating documents when circumstances change
Advance Care Planning resources
NSW Health Advance Care Planning
NSW Health provides information about Advance Care Planning, including guidance on making an Advance Care Directive, choosing a substitute decision-maker and recording healthcare preferences for the future.
Advance Care Planning | NSW Health
Advance Care Planning Australia (NSW)
Advance Care Planning Australia provides practical guidance to help people start conversations about future health care, understand their options and record their choices. The website includes NSW-specific information and resources, and free support is available through the National Advance Care Planning Support Service on 1300 208 582.
Advance Care Planning Australia | New South Wales
Sharing planning documents
It’s important that Advance Care Planning documents are available when needed. Copies can be shared with:
- the person’s GP
- hospital teams
- carers and family
- community health services
- residential aged care facilities (if relevant)
