Advance care planning allows those in the LGBTIQ community to express, and be respected for, their authentic selves says public advocate Ricki Spencer. For Ricki (they/her), advance care planning gives them a sense of respect, empowerment and understanding that they were initially denied when they first identified as a transgender non-binary person.

During National Advance Care Planning Week, 20 – 26 March, Advance Care Planning Australia and Dementia Australia are urging everyone to have brave conversations about their future health preferences in case there comes a time when they can no longer express their wishes.

While voluntary assisted dying enables a person to access medication and to legally choose the manner and timing of their death, advance care planning is accessible and relevant to all adults – regardless of health status or age.