Why is advance care planning important?

Advance care planning is a positive way to stay in control of your future healthcare. It ensures that if a time comes when you cannot speak for yourself, your values and choices are already known to the people around you. 

Documenting your wishes for future healthcare not only gives you peace of mind, but also makes it easier for your family and friends as they know they are supporting you to live the way you want to live. It takes the guesswork out of what could be an emotional time for everyone.

National Advance Care Planning Week runs from 16 to 22 March 2026. The theme for this year is ‘Your story, your choice’. This theme reminds us that every person has a unique story, and that each person deserves for their healthcare preferences to be heard and respected. It is the perfect time to start a conversation with your family, friends and any health or aged care workers who support you, so they know what matters most to you.

It is a common myth that advance care planning is only for older people. In reality, it is a valuable process for every adult, regardless of age or health status. Starting this journey early ensures your preferences are known if an unexpected illness or injury occurs. This proactive approach helps you stay in control of your care and supports your long-term well-being. By sharing your choices now, you provide your family with a clear roadmap to follow. This helps them feel confident that they are supporting you exactly as you intended.

When you have discussed your wishes and are ready to record them for future reference, there are several key plans Advance Care Planning Australia recommends you make:

• Advance Care Directive: This is a legal document where you can record your instructions about future medical treatments. It can also be used to name the people you want to make decisions for you.
• Substitute Decision-Maker: This refers to the person or people you appoint to make medical and personal decisions on your behalf if you lose the capacity to do so.
• Advance Care Plan: This is a more general document that outlines your values, beliefs and preferences for care. While it may not be as legally formal as a directive, it provides vital guidance for your loved ones and doctors.

Each State and Territory in Australia has slightly different rules and forms. For example, in South Australia, the primary legal document is the Advance Care Directive and in the Northern Territory it is called an Advance Personal Plan.

If you would like to learn more you can visit the Advance Care Planning Australia website.