This page details news and events in the palliative care community during 2010. Please note that links below were current at time of posting, however links may become obsolete as websites update content.

NHMRC Grant Round opens
NHMRC has opened the 2011 rounds of its Project Grants, Research Fellowships, Practitioner Fellowships, Howard Florey Emeritus Fellowships and Centres of Research Excellence schemes.
Posted by Admin on 14 December 2010 

Dementia Community Support Grants - Round Four
Funding for local projects that will improve dementia literacy, encourage innovation in the dementia care sector, bridge social gaps and encourage the social participation of people with dementia, their families and carers across Australia has been made available. Applications can be made a fourth round of Dementia Community Support Grants. Closing date is 2:00 pm on 10 February 2011.
Posted by Admin on 9 December 2010 

Local Palliative Care Grants Program (LPCGP): Round 6
The Department of Health and Ageing is seeking applications from community groups and health service organisations for grants to fund the fit out of premises and/or purchase of equipment in order to increase access to, and improved provision of quality care for palliative patients both in in-patient settings and in the home.
Closing date: 2:00 pm on 2 February 2011
Posted by Admin on 3 December 2010

NHPCO Facts and Figures: Hospice Care in America
This report provides an annual overview of important trends in the growth, delivery and quality of hospice care across the country.
Posted by Admin on 2 December 2010

Children and AIDS Fifth Stocktaking Report, 2010
This document reviews advances made in the four areas of HIV and AIDS that affect children and highlights key steps towards achieving an AIDS-free generation. The report is issued by a partnership that includes UNICEF, UNAIDS, UNESCO, UNFPA and the World Health Organization
Posted by Admin on 2 December 2010

UNAIDS Report on the global AIDS epidemic 2010
Based on the latest data from 182 countries, this global reference book provides comprehensive analysis on the AIDS epidemic and response.
Posted by Admin on 2 December 2010

Drug Control and Access to Medicines
A new website from the Drug Control and Access to Medicines (DCAM) Consortium is now available. The consortium has been funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) to support and contribute to efforts by a range of stakeholders to reduce policy-related barriers that prevent patients from receiving controlled medicines for pain and drug dependency.
Posted by Admin on 2 December 2010

Call for Nominations - IAHPC Board of Directors
The IAHPC is seeking nominations to 6 seats in the IAHPC Board of Directors. IAHPC Members are invited to send in nominations of palliative care and hospice care leaders with demonstrated interest in the development of international palliative care initiatives and issues.
Posted by Admin on 29 November 2010

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Control Research Project
A new report commissioned by Cancer Australia reviews research and other initiatives aimed at improving cancer control in Aboriginal people. The report shows clear evidence of poorer outcomes from cancer in Aboriginal peoples, including an estimated 50% increased risk of mortality for many cancers in the Aboriginal population.
Posted by Admin on 29 November 2010

Annual Evidence Update: Supportive and palliative care in chronic lung disease
This Annual Evidence Update addresses supportive and palliative care issues in people with chronic respiratory disease and will focus on two of the most important issues for patients with pulmonary problems, dyspnoea and cough.
Posted by Admin on 24 November 2010

Palliative Care Helpline
The Palliative Care Information Service (PCIS) name has been changed to Palliative Care Helpline, with the approval of Queensland Health in August 2010.  The service is now operated by palliative care nurses, social workers and counsellors.
Posted by Admin on 19 November 2010

Annual Evidence Update on End of Life Care: 15-19 November 2010
NHS Evidence - commissioning and NHS Evidence - innovation and improvement are jointly presenting an evidence update on end of life care. It aims to bring together up-to-date knowledge and evidence on issues related to the quality of care for those approaching the end of their life and their carers.
Posted by Admin on 16 November 2010

Annual Evidence Update on COPD: 15-19 November 2010
The Annual Evidence Update (AEU) for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) summarises the latest evidence published in the this area over the last 12 months.
Posted by Admin on 16 November 2010

End of life care in long term neurological conditions: A framework for implementation
This document has been produced by the National End of Life Care Programme (NEoLCP), in conjunction with the Neurological Alliance and the National Council for Palliative Care’s (NCPC) neurological group in the UK.
Posted by Admin on 16 November 2010

NHMRC Grants Awarded
Details of the 745 projects across Australia being funded by NHMRC Project Grants are now available. NHMRC received more than 3300 applications for these rounds, with an overall success rate of 23%.
Posted by Admin on 15 November 2010

Identification of Palliative Care Resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
The purpose of this project is to improve access to culturally appropriate palliative care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the availability of culturally and linguistically appropriate information resources. The Department of Health and Ageing is seeking tenders from capable and experienced individuals or organisations to map and review the existing resources which support palliative care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Closing date 8 December 2010
Posted by Admin on 15 November 2010

Launch of eviQ Opioid Conversion Calculator
eviQ has released an online Opioid Conversion Calculator. The eviQ opioid  calculator provides clinicians with an online tool to allow accurate conversion of one opioid regimen to an approximately equianalgesic  dose of another.
 Posted by Admin on 12 November 2010

Lung Cancer tenders
Cancer Australia is seeking tenders for three reviews

• CA- A1011/01: Research the effects of stigma and nihilistic views on lung cancer outcomes from the perspective of health professionals and people affected by lung cancer
• CA - A1011/02: Investigating the symptoms of lung cancer - a guide for general practitioners: involves developing evidence based guidance and associated educational and support materials for general practitioners to assist with effective investigation and timely referral of people who have/may have lung cancer
• CA - A1011/03: Research and comprehensively report on the risk factors for lung cancer: involves a systematic review of national and international literature on the risk factors for lung cancer.

Closing date is 30 November 2010
Posted by Admin on 8 November 2010

Guide for Using Statistics for Evidence Based Policy
There in an increasing emphasis within Australia, and internationally, on the importance of using good statistical information when making policy decisions.The Australian Bureau of Statistics has produced a 'Guide for Using Statistics for Evidence Based Policy' that provides an overview of how data can be used to make well informed policy decisions.
Posted by Admin on 8 November 2010

NHMRC RGMS Facility
The redeveloped RGMS production environment was reopened on 1 November. This system is used in developing grant applications and managing applicant CVs and profiles in NHMRC grant application and review cycles.  Training tutorials are available.
Posted by Admin on 8 November 2010

TGA reforms
Therapeutic Goods Administration has introduced a streamlined submission process for selected prescription medicines applications in Australia.
Posted by Admin on 4 November 2010

Perpetual's 2011 Funding Round
Perpetual distributes more than $40 million each year on behalf of the charitable trusts that it manages. Non-profit organisations may apply for grants in the annual funding round.
Posted by Admin on 4 November 2010

National Carer Strategy
The Australian Government is developing a National Carer Recognition Framework (Framework) to better recognise carers.  The Carer Recognition Bill 2010 is the first element of the Framework and was introduced into Parliament on 29 September 2010. The National Carer Strategy (Strategy) is the second element of the Framework and is being developed in consultation with State and Territory Governments and with input from carers, carer support organisations and service providers. A discussion document on the strategy is available for comment. Comments are required by 5 December 2010.
Posted by Admin on 3 November 2010

New PBS Prescribers
From 1 November 2010 midwives and nurse practitioners authorised as PBS prescribers will be able to write prescriptions for certain medicines under the PBS. The arrangements for PBS prescribing for midwives and nurse practitioners will be the same basis as those for medical practitioners. This means that authorised midwives and authorised nurse practitioners will be able to write PBS prescriptions in private practice and in hospitals once they have a prescriber number.
Posted by Admin on 1 November 2010

International Society of Advance Care Planning and End of Life Care (ACPEL)
the International Society of Advance Care Planning and End of Life Care was established at the inaugural conference in April 2010. The Society objectives include: 

• Promoting universal access to quality advance care planning
• Promoting excellence in care for people near the end of life
• Promoting the provision of physical, psycho-emotional and spiritual care in the context of advance care planning and end of life care.

Posted by Admin on 29 October 2010

Medicare Locals – Discussion Paper on Governance and Functions
The Australian Government has released a discussion paper on the planned roles, functions and governance for a network of primary health care organisations – Medicare Locals. The Government’s discussion paper and information on how to respond to the discussion paper is available at www.yourhealth.gov.au. Submissions must be received by 15 November 2010.
Posted by Admin on 29 October 2010

Public Consultation: Proposed amendments to the National Statement
The NHMRC is conducting a public consultation on proposed amendments to chapters 3.6 and 4.1 of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2007).
Posted by Admin on 29 October 2010

e-Health Conference
A eHealth summit will be health on 30 November and 1 December to discuss how ehealth and telehealth will drive health care. Health experts, consumer groups and information technology specialists will particapte.
Posted by Admin on 28 October 2010

2010 Annual Evidence Update on Breast Cancer
The sixth Annual Evidence Update (AEU) on Breast Cancer prepared by NHS Evidence - cancer is now available. It includes systematic reviews and other guidance that has been published since October 2009.
Posted by Admin on 25 October 2010

Consumer Directed Respite Care Initiative
The first contract  for the Consumer Directed Respite Care initiative has been let. This initiative allows carers to select respite services of their choice.
Posted by Admin on 23 October 2010

Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare (2010)
NHMRC’s Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare (2010) are now available. The Guidelines support the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare’s work in preventing healthcare associated infections.
Posted by Admin on 18 October 2010

Finding the words - starting a conversation when your cancer has progressed
NBOCC has developed a guide, Finding the words - starting a conversation when your cancer has progressed, to help women with secondary breast or ovarian cancer talk about how palliative care might help them, to live as well as possible when cancer has spread.
Posted by Admin on 14 October 2010

Sharing the care - World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2010
The report produced by the Worldwide Palliative Care Alliance highlights how building partnerships and sharing the care can improve the quality of life for even the most vulnerable and marginalised people living with a life-limiting illness.
Posted by Admin on 14 October 2010

NHS Evidence Depression Annual Evidence Update
The Depression Annual Evidence Update 2010 brings together evidence-based guidelines, systematic reviews, evidence summaries, care pathways and service development literature.
Posted by Admin on 4 October 2010

Graduate Certificate of Adolescent Health and Welfare Oncology
A new postgraduate certificate program on AYA cancer care/oncology being offered by the University of Melbourne in 2011, developed by the Centre for Adolescent Health (Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne) and the onTrac@PeterMac Victorian AYA Cancer Service. The course is offered part-time and can be completed in one year. It has a multidisciplinary focus and is offered via a combination of distance education and online learning.  CanTeen is offering a number of course scholarships. Scholarship applicationsdue 30 November 2010
Posted by Admin on 28 September 2010

PaCCSC Research Meeting 17-18 March 2011
The 2nd Palliative Care Clinical Studies Collaborative Research Meeting will be held in Sydney on 17-18 March 2011. Individuals are invited to submit a synopsis of a clinical study. 
Posted by Admin on 24 September 2010

The World Alzheimer Report 2010
Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) has released a new report, The World Alzheimer Report 2010 which provides the most current and comprehensive global picture of the economic and social costs of the illness.The report indicates  that the worldwide costs of dementia will exceed 1% of global GDP in 2010, at US$604 billion, noting that if dementia care were a country, it would be the world's 18th largest economy.
Posted by Admin on 23 September 2010

Australian Rotary Health - Grants and Scholarships
There are several grants and PhD scholarships now open through Australian Rotary Health. Applications close 3 December 2010.
 Posted by Admin on 23 September 2010

Lung Foundation Research Awards
There are five research awards categories open across a variety of areas:

1. The Australian Lung Foundation and Boehringer-Ingelheim Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Research Fellowship
2. The Australian Lung Foundation Lung Cancer Program Cochrane Review Scholarship
3. The Australian Lung Foundation Lung Cancer Program Post-graduate Grant-in-Aid for Lung Cancer Research Award
4. The Australian Lung Foundation Lung Cancer Program Under-graduate Grant-in-Aid for Lung Cancer Research Award,
5. The Australian Lung Foundation and Ludwig Engel Grant-in-Aid for Physiological Research

Details on all awards are availble at the website. Closing date: 1 November 2010
Posted by Admin on 22 September 2010

NPS Phone services update
From 1 July some changes have taken place in relation to the NPS phone services. The Therapeutic Advisory Information Service (TAIS) for health professionals has ceased operation. To assist health professionals seeking medicines information, a Guide to medicines information resources page on the website with links to information sources and services has been created.
Posted by Admin on 21 September 2010

Guidelines for collecting Indigenous status in health data sets
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare  has produced guideline to support a national approach for collecting
and recording accurate information on the Indigenous status of clients.
Posted by Admin on 10 September 2010

Evidence Update: Anorexia and Cachexia
The third Annual Evidence Update on treatments for anorexia and cachexia in chronic disease and palliative care undertake by NHS Evidence is now availble.
Posted by Admin on 8 September 2010

Livewire website
Livewire.org.au was established to support the needs of families in distress as a result of dealing with the impact of a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Starlight Children’s Foundation and is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Clever Networks program.There are three different online groups

• Livewire Members
• Livewire Siblings
• Livewire Parents

Posted by Admin on 6 September 2010

Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management
Updated guidelines on the treatment of stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) have been released by the National Stroke Foundation. The clinical guidelines provide a series of evidence-based recommendations to promote improved treatment for stroke and TIA.
Posted by Admin on 3 September 2010

NHMRC Research Funding Facts Fact Book 2010
The NHMRC  has produced a brief publication NHMRC Research Funding Facts Facts Book 2010 that contains key statistics related to NHMRC’s research funding and research activity over the last ten years.
Posted by Admin on 30 August 2010

Ian Potter Foundation Community Wellbeing grants
Community Wellbeing funds two sets of grants - smaller grants (under $50,000)to support community-based organisations with strong volunteer components to deliver programs targeting disadvantage, poverty and the general wellbeing of the community and large grants program seeks to improve the life chances of individuals and families.  Closing date for applications is 13 September 2010
Posted by Admin on 19 August 2010

International lymphoedema guidelines
International guidelines developed with the Canadian and UK International Lymphoedema Framework Teams have been issued for the management of lymphoedema in advanced cancer and oedema at the end of life.
Posted by Admin on 5 August 2010

MNDcare
A new website, www.mndcare.net.au, has been established as a ‘one-stop shop’ about motor neurone disease for
primary, allied, palliative, aged, disability and community care professionals.
Posted by Admin on 5 August 2010

Diagnosis and management of metastatic malignant disease of unknown primary origin
The advice in the NICE guideline covers: the treatment and care of adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer of unknown primary, including people who have been treated for cancer before.
Posted by Admin on 30 July  2010

MND Research Grants
Grant applications for research in motor neurone disease to commence in 2011 are now open.

• Grants-in-Aid applications can be for up to a maximum of $100,000.
• The Bill Gole MND Postdoctoral Fellowship is directed towards postdoctoral scientists with a track record in areas of neuroscience related to motor neurone disease and provides salary for a full-time research fellow at $75,000 pa for up to 3 years.

Closing date for applications is 27th August 2010.
Posted by Admin on 28 July  2010

National Palliative care performance indicators (2008)
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has released its report on the results of the 2008 performance indicator data collection. It outlines the extent to which palliative care agencies have met the four national performance indicators that were developed based on the goals and objectives of the National Palliative Care Strategy.
Posted by Admin on 20 July  2010

Central Australia Renal Study
The Australian, Northern Territory, South Australian and Western Australian Governments have agreed to the Terms of Reference for a Central Australian renal study. The study will inform consideration of the most effective and feasible service delivery options and pathways for care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in need of renal services, including dialysis, and will identify issues around the distribution of these services.
Posted by Admin on 20 July  2010

Quality of Death Index Report
The Economist Intelligence Unit has published the first ever global study on the quality of death, ranking 40 countries on their provision of end of life care. 'The quality of death: ranking end-of-life care across the world', commissioned by the Lien Foundation, provides a snapshot of end of life care, scoring countries on 24 indicators including access to hospice care, the level of government involvement and public awareness. The findings can also be accessed visually through the Life before death website.
Posted by Admin on 16 July  2010

ICPCN Partnership Initiative
The International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN) has published a Guide to children’s hospice and palliative care partnerships to encourage links between people working in this field around the world.
Posted by Admin on 16 July  2010

Framework document for social care at the end of life
The UK National End of Life Care Programme has published a new document, Supporting people to live and die well: a framework for social care at the end of life. It outlines implications and strategies associated with an ageing population and increasing levels of chronic illness on current social care arrangements.
Posted by Admin on 16 July  2010

Undergraduate Scholarships
The Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Scheme: Undergraduate is now open for applications until 10 September 2010.
Posted by Admin on 14 July  2010

End-of-life guidance document
Palliative Care Australia has released a guidance document on health system reform and care at the end of life. It presents a vision for the development of high-quality palliative and end-of-life care in Australia.
Posted by Admin on 8 July  2010

Roadmap to Reform
The Minister for Health and Ageing has released the timeline and implementation map for changes to the Australian health and hospital services.
Posted by Admin on 8 July  2010

• Homeopathy
• Asthma
• Acupuncture

Posted by Admin on 2 July  2010

State of Our Public Hospitals June 2010
This report, the seventh in an annual series, is a detailed report card on public hospital performance in the 2008-09 financial year.
Posted by Admin on 1 July  2010

Road Map II
NHMRC has launched Road Map II: A strategic framework for improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through research.
Posted by Admin on 1 July  2010

Improving advertising arrangements for therapeutic goods
The Therapeutic Goods Administration is seeking feedback on a number of proposed amendments to the arrangements for the regulation of therapeutic goods advertisements. Feedback will help to inform future advertising arrangements that are clearer and simpler, reduce inconsistencies between advertising requirements for different types of therapeutic goods and provide more effective sanctions for those who breach the advertising requirements.  Comments are required by 27 August 2010
Posted by Admin on 1 July  2010

Promotion of Medicines and Medical Devices
The Australian Government has released a proposal for stronger self-regulation by the pharmaceutical and therapeutic goods industries for promotion of their products to doctors and health professionals. Comments should be received by 30 July 2010
Posted by Admin on 1 July  2010

Australia’s Health 2010
The 2010 edition of Australia’s Health is now available. It provides an invaluable compendium of statistics and analysis on the health of Australia.
Posted by Admin on 23 June 2010

Novel Concept Award (Breast Cancer Research)
The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) has called for applications for an innovative program of breast cancer research,its Novel Concept Award. These awards will provide investigators with the opportunity to pursue serendipitous observations and/or explore new, untested ideas relevant to breast cancer. Applications Friday 23rd July 2010
Posted by Admin on 17 June 2010

National Cancer Agency
From early 2011-12 the cancer agency, Cancer Australia will be amalgamated with the  National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC). Dr Helen Zorbas has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Cancer Australia.
Posted by Admin on 16 June 2010

2011 NHMRC funding round for Scholarships
NHMRC Postgraduate Scholarships scheme aim to support outstanding Australian health and medical graduates early in their career so that they can be trained to conduct research that is internationally competitive and to develop a capacity for original independent research. Applications for 2011 funding close 30 July 2010 (6:00pm AEST)
Posted by Admin on 13 June 2010

International Palliative Care Network Poster Exhibition-2010
Palliative Care Network Community (PCNC) is hosting of the International Palliaitve Care Network Poster Exhibition-2010.Participation is open to all palliative care professionals from across the globe.Deadline for poster submission: 11:59 Eastern Time (USA), August 31,2010.
Posted by Admin on 6 June 2010

Inter-disciplinary and/or Cross Boundary (Intersectoral Boundaries)
The Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute (APHCRI) is now offering funding for up to four projects to provide evidence on Inter-disciplinary and/or Cross Boundary (Intersectoral Boundaries) Primary Health Care Research. Closing date: Jul 09 2010
Posted by Admin on 3 June 2010

Clearinghouse for evidence-based research on overcoming Indigenous disadvantage
This Clearinghouse maintained by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare provides access to a collection of quality information on what works to overcome Indigenous disadvantage. This will provide policy makers and program managers with an evidence base for achieving the Closing the Gap targets and related Indigenous reforms.
Posted by Admin on 3 June 2010

World Hospice Day 2010: Sharing the care 
The theme for 2010 will be 'Sharing the care'. This theme highlights the role of partnerships to support care for people living with a life-limiting illness. The day will highlight how good working partnerships between service providers, governments, hospitals, people living with the illness, carers and community members are vital to the provision of quality care.
Posted by Admin on 3 June 2010

Curriculum for professionals working in paediatric palliative care
The European Association for Palliative Care Paediatric Palliative Care Steering Group has formed a task force to produce a core curriculum for healthcare professionals working in paediatric palliative care in Europe.
Posted by Admin on 3 June 2010

HoMER public consultation on 'Standardised Forms'
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is seeking public comment and feedback on proposed standardised forms developed as part of a consultation on a proposed national approach for the acceptance of a single ethical and scientific review of health and medical human research. Comments must be submitted by 2 July 2010.
Posted by Admin on 28 May 2010

NHMRC Strategic Plan (2010 - 2012)
The NHMRC has released its Strategic Plan for 2010 - 2012. It has prioritised ten major health issues for this period: Building a self-improving health system; Indigenous health and well-being; Ageing and health; Chronic disease; Mental health; Genomic medicine and frontier technologies; Planning for emerging infectious disease threats; Examining alternative therapy claims; Global health and Health consequences of climate change.
Posted by Admin on 28 May 2010

National Palliative Care Week 2010 - $14 Million Boost
Minister for Health Nicola Roxon and Minister for Ageing Justine Elliot, today marked National Palliative Care Week 2010 by announcing $14.3 million to fund nine projects for improved palliative care services, research, training and information.
Posted by Admin on 26 May 2010

Syringe Driver Replacement Program - round 2
Palliative Care Australia has been appointed by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing to manage the application, assessment and funding process for a $2.38m program for the replacement of Graseby syringe drivers used by community-based palliative care service providers.Applications close on 18 June 2010
Posted by Admin on 26 May 2010

National Palliative Care Draft Strategy
The draft National Palliative Care Strategy 2010 prepared by Communio  available for comment. Comments must be made by 26 May 2010.
Posted by Admin on 17 May 2010

Rural Palliative Care Project
Further funding has been provided to the Rural Palliative Care Project to continue to provide coordinated palliative care to patients and families in rural and regional areas.
Posted by Admin on 10 May 2010

Resources in other Languages
To coincide with National Palliative Care Week, PCA has translated three of its most popular consumer resources in 21 languages: What is palliative care?, Facts about morphine, and Asking questions can help.
Posted by Admin on 5 May 2010

National Palliative Care Week
If only I knew … how to talk about dying is the theme for the 13th National Palliative Care Week being held during May 2010. Palliative Care Australia has produced a postcard set with tips and information to help people to think about how they would like their end of life to be.
Posted by Admin on 5 May 2010

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Research Program
The PCFA wishes to encourage and support their interest in prostate cancer research through a research grants program. Grant categories are: Young Investigator Grants, Concept Grants, Project Grants and Equipment Grants. Applications close 1 July 2010.
Posted by Admin on 4 May 2010

Australian Guideline Developers Network
NICS is convening the first of a planned series of workshops in Melbourne in June 2010 for guideline developers. This will be the first opportunity for the newly established Australian Guideline Developers Network to meet as a group. The Network has been established to provide a forum for exploring common issues, sharing knowledge and supporting collaboration in guideline development. If you are interested in joining the Network and/or attending the workshop, please contact Annabelle Workman on (03) 8866 0444 or at annabelle.workman@nhmrc.gov.au.
Posted by Admin on 3 May 2010

NHMRC Development Grant
A Development Grant provides funding support to individual researchers, research teams, or a HMR company in partnership with a researcher/s to undertake research at the early proof-of-principle or pre-seed stage. The Scheme supports the commercial development of a product, process, procedure or service that if applied, would result in improved health care, disease prevention or provide health cost savings. Applications close 14 July 2010
Posted by Admin on 3 May 2010

Leukaemia Foundation National Research Program 2011
Grants-in-Aid, Fellowships and Scholarship applications for the Leukaemia Foundation National Research Program 2011 are now open. Applications in all fields of research which will improve outcomes for people with blood cancers and related disorders will be considered.
Posted by Admin on 28 April 2010

Expressions of interest - Australian Research Integrity Committee
The Australian Research Integrity Committee (ARIC) is being jointly established by National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Research Council as a national advisory body that will review processes by which universities and other research organisations have handled allegations of research misconduct. NHMRC and ARC have called for expressions of interest for membership to the Australian Research Integrity Committee.
Posted by Admin on 27 April 2010

Annual Evidence Update: Pain in supportive and palliative care
The 2010 Annual Evidence Update on pain in supportive and palliative care has been released in the NHS Evidence Specialist Collections.
Posted by Admin on 27 April 2010

National Palliative Care Week: 23 – 29 May 2010
During National Palliative Care Week, Palliative Care Australia is encouraging all Australians to talk a little more about dying and death. A number of resources will be available during National Palliative Care Week, including a postcard and poster set which highlight the theme.
Posted by Admin on 27 April 2010

New Canteen Publication 'Now What?'
Canteen has recently released 'Now what?  Living with the death of your parent or brother or sister from cancer', a free booklet which addresses the issues of bereavement and grief, providing information, support and advice across a range of areas that can impact on a young person whose family member has died of cancer.  To order a copy, phone 1800 669 942 or visit www.nowwhat.org.au.
Posted by Admin on 27 April 2010

New CEO for Palliative Care Australia
Dr Yvonne Luxford has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Palliative Care Australia. She will commence her role in early May.
Posted by Admin on 12 April 2010

Prostate Cancer, Depression and Anxiety program broadcast
Three national health agencies, beyondblue, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Rural Health Education Foundation have joined forces to raise awareness of depression and anxiety in men with prostate cancer and their partners. An accredited education program for health professionals will be broadcast on 18 May across the Rural Health Education Foundation’s satellite network of more than 660 sites, and will be repeated on 21 May.
Posted by Admin on 31 March 2010

National Pain Summit
At the National Pain Summit, held on Thursday March 11, 2010 at Parliament House in Canberra more than 130 organisations - representing Australia's leading authorities in pain medicine, other healthcare professionals, industry, funders and consumer groups - united to back the world’s first National Pain Strategy.
Posted by Admin on 29 March 2010

Methylnaltrexone injection (Relistor) for opioid-induced constipation in palliative care
The National Prescribing Service has provided information on Methylnaltrexone as an option for treating opioid-induced constipation in people receiving palliative care.
Posted by Admin on 23 March 2010

2010 Cancer Research Grants
The Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) is calling for applications for cancer research in the areas of Capital Works and Facilities and National Enterprises for grants between $1.5 and $5 million.
Posted by Admin on 23 March 2010

Third edition of Acute Pain Management: Scientific Evidence
NHMRC has recently approved Acute Pain Management: Scientific Evidence Third Edition (2010), developed by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA). The aim of the document is to combine a review of the best available evidence for acute pain management with current clinical and expert practice.
Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Primary Care items
A series of changes to the MBS primary care will take effect from 1 May 2010. The changes relate to  item descriptors, after hours attendances, prolonged attendances, changes to health assessments and chronic disease management items and changes to multidisciplinary GP conferences. Some of these services improve coordination of multidisciplinary care for people with chronic (or terminal) conditions and complex care needs.
Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

Lowitja Institute 
The Lowitja Institute is Australia’s National Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Health Research. Recently launched, the Institute was established by the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health CRCATSIH), formerly the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal Health (CRCAH).
Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

Pfizer Australian Research Grants
A series of grants are now open for application

• Cancer Research Grant
  Support and advances clinical research in the fields of Oncology. Applications close 5 April 2010
• Neuroscience Research Grants
  Support and advance basic and clinical research in the fields of neuroscience including psychiatry, pain medicine, neurology, and associated areas. Applications close 14 April 2010

Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

ARC Linkage Projects
Applications for 2011 funding under the Linkage Projects scheme are open in the ARC online application system. The Linkage Projects Funding Rules for funding commencing in 2011 are now available. Closing date for submission of proposals is 17:00 (AEST), Wednesday 12 May 2010. 
Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

Heart Foundation Travel Grants and Fellowships
Travel grants are available for travel in June 01 - September 30 2010 to support Australian researchers travelling to present their cardiovascular research at a conference overseas or Indigenous health researchers travelling to present their research in Australia. Closing date for Applications: 9 April 2010

The following fellowships are being called for, to commence in 2011:

• Postdoctoral Fellowships (Biomedical, Clinical, Public Health)
• Overseas Research Fellowships
• Career Development Fellowship

Applications for all fellowships close at 5pm, Monday, 12th April 2010
Posted by Admin on 17 March 2010

New PBS Listing March 2010
Methylnaltrexone has been listed on the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits. It will provide an alternative treatment for opioid-induced constipation in palliative care patients where other treatments for constipation are no longer effective. The PBAC (July 2009) recommended listing methylnaltrexone on the PBS on the basis of high clinical need, and high and uncertain but acceptable cost-effectiveness compared with placebo.
Posted by Admin on 15 March 2010

National Health and Hospitals Network
Major structural reforms to Australia’s health and hospital system are proposed in the Rudd's Government's National Health and Hospitals Network document. These reforms will be put to the states and territories at the COAG meeting to be held in Canberra on 11 April.
Posted by Admin on 10 March 2010

Australian Research Council Postgraduate Scholarship in Dignity Therapy
Western Australian Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care, Curtin University of Technology
Applications are invited for a doctoral scholarship for research in palliative care in the area of Dignity Therapy for Motor Neurone Disease, leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Closing date: 12 April 2010
Posted by Admin on 10 March 2010

NHMRC Program Grant scheme
The aim of the Program Grants scheme is to provide support for teams of high calibre researchers to pursue broad based, multi-disciplinary and collaborative research activities. Applications for funding to commence in 2012 are now open. Closing date 1 June 2010.
Posted by Admin on 10 March 2010

Report of the Review of Health Technology Assessment in Australia
A new report recommends improvements to the way new health products, procedures and services are assessed for public funding, in line with international best practice.
Posted by Admin on 6 March 2010

Research into the effect of palliative care for people living with HIV/AIDS
The Palliative Care Initiative of The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund is inviting proposals from suitably experienced research institutions to investigate and provide rigorous evidence on the effect of palliative care on the quality of life and outcomes for people living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Applications close 13 May 2010.
Posted by Admin on 6 March 2010

Additional ANZSPM Forums
Two further ANZSPM forums looking at renal failure and a patient's pathway to palliative care have been arranged for 2010:
Brisbane     3 June 2010
Sydney      24 June 2010
Posted by Admin on 6 March 2010

Victorian Bereavement Services Directory
The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement website has added an online directory of bereavement services and programs available throughout Victoria.  Over time this may be extended to provide a national directory of bereavement services.
Posted by Admin on 1 March 2010

Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) have launched a new national Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal that will provide links to current Australian guidelines developed by governments, professional colleges, specialty societies and non-government agencies. The Australian guidelines are important tools that ensure the most recent Australian and international research is evaluated and applied across different health care settings to enable better health outcomes to be achieved for all.
Posted by Admin on 26 February 2010

Senior Medical Research Fellowship
The Sylvia and Charles Viertel Charitable Foundation invites applications annually for a five-year Senior Medical Research Fellowship to establish a research career in Australia and undertake research in an Australian academic institution. Applications close on 1 May 2010.
Posted by Admin on 25 February 2010

Clinical Investigator Awards
The Sylvia and Charles Viertel Charitable Foundation invites applications for Clinical Investigator awards. Applicants should be actively engaged in clinical work and pursuing health and medical research in a university clinical department, a teaching hospital, a clinical research unit of a research institute or in an academic general practice setting.
Posted by Admin on 25 February 2010

Margaret Corden Scholarship
Margaret Corden Scholarship to the value of $5,000 is awarded by the Council of ACT Palliative Care Society for projects which advance the knowledge and expertise of palliative care. Applications for the 2010 scholarship are now open.  Individuals and organizations are invited to apply. Closing date for 2010 applications is 5 April.  For further information, email info@pallcareact.org.au or phone (02) 6273 9606
Posted by Admin on 25 February 2010

Second call for Funding - Partnership Projects
The second call for funding under the NHMRC Partnership Projects initiative (Partnership Projects 2009) is open.The NHMRC Partnerships initiative is designed to more effectively integrate evidence into health policy and service delivery. Closing date is 30 April 2010.
Posted by Admin on 23 February 2010

Heart Foundation Career Development Fellowship
The purpose of the Career Development Fellowship is to develop the career of Australian citizens or permanent residents, who are 2-12 years postdoctoral.  These applicants are expected to have spent at least four years actively contributing to cardiovascular research. Applications close 12 April, 2010
Posted by Admin on 17 February 2010

Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Heart Foundation offers fellowships to graduates of recognised institutions whose usual place of residence is in Australia and who propose to engage in biomedical, clinical and/or public health (including health services) research related to cardiovascular disease and related
disorders. Closing date: 12 April, 2010
Posted by Admin on 17 February 2010

National Palliative Care Strategy Review
Communio is conducting a review of the National Palliative Care Strategy for the Department of Health and Ageing. As part of the review process  contributions are sought from any interested individuals or groups through:

•  participation in a survey (available now), and/or
• attendance at workshops to be held across Australia in March 2010. 

To participate in the online survey click here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PalliativeCareStrategyUpdate. This survey will remain open until midnight 1 March 2010. 
To register for a workshop click here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Stakeholder_registration

A report of Phase 1 activities including the literature review and consultation with key informants to establish a Framework against which the current Strategy should be reviewed is also available.
Posted by Admin on 15 February 2010

Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation Grants
Applications are now open for research grants into serious conditions that affect children. Grants of $75,000 will be awarded for research to be undertaken in 2011. Early Career Grants of up to $35,000 per annum to scientists applying for the first time as Chief Investigator are also considered. Applications close on 29 April 2010.
Posted by Admin on 15 February 2010

A good death
Four Corners, a program on the ABC, Australia's public broadcaster,  highlighted the contribution of palliative care in a show looking at the stories of four Australians as they come to the end of their lives, and the people determined to give them a good death.
Posted by Admin on 12 February 2010

Australia Fellowships
The Australia Fellowship is an award to support the salary and research of outstanding researchers with a vision to expand the scale and scope of Australian health and medical research. Australia Fellows will be conducting innovative research at the highest international levels. Applications are now open. Expression of Interest CLOSE: 25 March 2010
Posted by Admin on 12 February 2010

2010 Dementia Grants Program.
Alzheimer’s Australia Research (AAR) has announced its 2010 Dementia Grants Program. Grants available include:

• New Researcher Grants
• Travel Grants
• Postgraduate Scholarships

Applications close 12 April 2010.
Posted by Admin on 8 February 2010

Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits February Update
The Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits was updated on 1 February 2010. The modified release preparation of hydromorphone - Jurnista 4mg, has now been listed on the General Pharmaceutical Benefits listing as of February 2010.  It has a restricted benefit for pain not responding to non-narcotic analgesics.
Posted by Admin on 5 February 2010

Intergenerational Report 2010
This is the first Intergenerational Report of the Rudd Government. In addition to assessing the fiscal and economic challenges of an ageing population, this report also includes a comprehensive discussion on environmental challenges and social sustainability.
Posted by Admin on 2 February 2010

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association
A peak national body for Australia's 1,600 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers has established. The will provide advocacy, mentoring and support for indigenous health workers and will provide information through a new website at www.natsihwa.org.au.
Posted by Admin on 1 February 2010

World Cancer Day
Each year on 4 February, the World Health Organization supports the International Union Against Cancer to promote ways to ease the global burden of cancer. Preventing cancer and raising quality of life for cancer patients are recurring themes.
Posted by Admin on 28 January 2010

End of Life Care for All (e-ELCA) e-Learning Program
The NHS eLearning for Healthcare (e-LfH) has released as e-learning raining program End of Life Care for All. Some of the modules for administrative and clerical staff and volunteers are openly available.
Posted by Admin 25 January 2010

Identification of resources to support palliative care for people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities
The Department of Health and Ageing is seeking tenders from capable and experienced individuals or organisations to map and critically assess resources which support palliative and end of life care for people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Closing date is 2pm on 12 February 2010.
Posted by Admin 22 January 2010

Career Development Awards
This scheme aims to further develop Australian health and medical researchers early in their career. It will enable investigators to establish themselves as independent, self-directed researchers; expand capacity for biomedical, clinical, public health and health service delivery research, and for evidence-based policy development in Australian health systems; and encourage the translation of research outcomes into practice.Applications close on 31 March 2010.
Posted by Admin 22 January 2010

Call for Researchers to serve on the Project Grant Review Panels in 2010
NHMRC is currently identifying researchers to serve on the Project Grant Review Panels in 2010. Researchers can express their interest by email to grp.membership@nhmrc.gov.au
Posted by Admin 22 January 2010

NHMRC TRIP Fellowship Scheme
Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) is a new early-to-mid career fellowship scheme to support the translation of research findings into clinical practice. Applications are now open and will close at 5pm (AEDST) 1 March 2010, for funding commencing in October 2010.
Posted by Admin 22 January 2010

Australia Fellowship round five – EOI opening and closing date amendment
Australia Fellowship round five will open for Expressions of Interest on the amended date of 10 February 2010 for funding commencing in 2011. The closing date for Expressions of Interest is 25 March 2010. NHMRC particularly invites translational researchers (practice or policy) to apply.
Posted by Admin 22 January 2010

NHS Annual Evidence Update on ‘Patient and carer involvement in chronic disease’
NHS Evidence has published its Annual Evidence Update on ‘Patient and carer involvement in chronic disease’. This update on patient and carer engagement in chronic disease management reflects the widening field of supportive and end of life care.
Posted by Admin on 22 January 2010

ANZSPM Forums
ANZSPM will be hosting a series of forums in the early part of  2010.

• 29 March 2010, Christchurch: What's new in pain control
• 30 March 2010, Palmerston North: What's new in pain control
• 31 March 2010, Auckland: What's new in pain control
• 12 May 2010, Adelaide: Anxiety and depression in the terminally ill
• 13 May 2010, Perth: Anxiety and depression in the terminally ill
• 17 May 2010, Darwin: Anxiety and depression in the terminally ill
• 17 May 2010, Melbourne: Anxiety and depression in the terminally ill
• 18 May 2010, Hobart: Anxiety and depression in the terminally ill

Posted by Admin on 13 January 2010

Review of Ethics Guidelines
AIATSIS is currently undertaking a full review of the our Guidelines for Ethical Research in Indigenous Studies (GERIS) and associated materials. The project is looking at developments in ethical practices over the past decade and emerging trends for the future, with the aim of delivering a coherent policy document to guide ethical research involving Indigenous peoples over the next 5-10 years. Comments are now invited on the Discussion Paper and revised draft of GERIS.
Posted by Admin on 13 January 2010

Palliative Care Medication Guidelines (Queensland)
The Brisbane South Palliative Care Collaborative has finalised the updated version of the document ‘Guidelines for the Handling of Medication in Community Based Palliative Care Services in Queensland’. The guidelines were endorsed by the Environmental Health Unit, Queensland Health and Queensland Health Patient Safety and Quality Executive Committee in August 2009. Hard copies of the guidelines are available by emailing BSPCC@health.qld.gov.au or alternatively the document can be viewed and downloaded direct by visiting http://www.health.qld.gov.au/cpcre/medguidepccn.asp or http://www.palliativecareqld.org.au.
Posted by Admin on 13 January 2010

Translating Research into Practice (TRIP) Fellowships
The NHMRC TRIP Fellowships provide support and training for future leaders in knowledge translation, the science and practice of evidence implementation. Applications for this scheme are now open. Closing date is 1 March 2010
Posted by Admin on 12 January 2010

Practitioner Fellowships Scheme
The NHMRC's Practitioner Fellowships Scheme is intended for active clinicians and public health or health services professionals to undertake research that is linked to their practice or policy. The Scheme
may support practitioners in developing a career that includes successful research. Applications for this scheme are now open. Closing date is 12 February 2010 
 Posted by Admin on 12 January 2010

Research Fellowships
The NHMRC's Fellowship Awards provide support for experienced researchers to undertake research that is both of major importance in its field and of benefit to Australian health. The Research Fellowship Scheme is now open for applications. Closing date is 12 February 2010.
 Posted by Admin on 12 January 2010

Priority-driven Collaborative Cancer Research Scheme
The Priority-driven Collaborative Cancer Research Scheme is a research grant funding program conducted by Cancer Australia to support cancer research project grants in identified priority areas. In the 2010 round of the scheme, Cancer Australia, beyondblue: the national depression initiative, Cancer Council New South Wales, Cancer Council Tasmania, CanTeen, Cure Cancer Australia Foundation, the Leukaemia Foundation, Meat and Livestock Australia, the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the National Centre for Gynaecological Cancers, the National Lung Cancer Program and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, will support Australian researchers to work collaboratively towards generating evidence, increasing knowledge and improving the translation of research into policy and practice in cancer research priority areas. Applications are now open. Closing date: 17 March 2010
Posted by Admin on 11 January 2010

News items from previous years can be found on the Community News 2008 page and Community News 2009 page.

Last updated 20 December 2010