The Power of Connection: Strengthening Palliative Care Across Tasmania

Our 2026 State Conference brought the end-of-life ecosystem together at Wrest Point for two inspiring days of learning, discussion and connection.

With more than 160 delegates, over 60 speakers and more than 35 keynote, concurrent and interactive sessions, the Conference explored how stronger connections between services, organisations and communities can improve palliative and end-of-life care across Tasmania.

Professor Samar Aoun AM shared the importance of compassionate communities and the role we can all play in supporting people experiencing dying, caring and grief. Dr Kerrie Noonan encouraged us to build greater death literacy and create more open conversations about death and dying. Professor Kenneth Hillman AO joined an engaging dignified dying panel, exploring how we can provide care that respects people’s wishes, needs and dignity. 

Across the concurrent sessions, speakers also shared valuable perspectives on grief, aged care, public health approaches, clinical practice, lived experience and community-led care.

With Hobart’s stunning weather and waterfront setting providing the backdrop, the Conference created space for new ideas, stronger partnerships and conversations that will continue well beyond these two days.

The bigger message was clear: palliative care is not the responsibility of one service or one part of the health system. It is an ecosystem, and when its many parts connect, the impact can reach across workplaces, services, families and communities. We look forward to seeing the ripple effect of these conversations throughout Tasmania.

Thank you to our speakers, delegates, sponsors, exhibitors, partners and supporters for your contribution, guidance and commitment. Your involvement helped bring End-of-Life Ecosystem: The Power of Connection to life and made the Conference such a valuable experience for our sector. 

All professional photos from the Conference are now available. Click the button below to view and download the images.