Fact: only 53% of Australians feel comfortable talking to a family member about end-of-life*.
Fact: 100% of us will die, whether we talk about it or not.
Every year on August 8, Dying to Know Day invites us to do something many of us avoid: talk openly about death, dying and what matters most.
It might feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most meaningful conversations you can have.
What’s the risk of staying silent?
Most people have preferences about their end of life care, what they would want, what they wouldn’t, and the values that shape those decisions.
But too often, those wishes go unspoken.
When that happens, families are left to make decisions in moments of stress and grief, without knowing what their loved one would have wanted. It can lead to confusion, anxiety, and lasting doubt.
The secret you’ll be glad you shared
This year’s Dying to Know Day theme, “Nobody Knows – the secret I’m glad I shared,” is a powerful reminder:
- If you don’t share your wishes, the people who matter most may never know them.
- Advance care planning helps change that.
How advance care planning can help
Advance care planning is about understanding and sharing what matters to you, so your voice is heard, even if you can’t speak for yourself.
It gives your trusted ones:
- Confidence they’re honouring your wishes and values
- A roadmap during emotionally difficult moments
- Relief from the burden of guessing
The hardest part is getting started
Starting the conversation can feel like the biggest hurdle, but it doesn’t have to be formal or daunting.
You can talk about it anywhere, over a coffee, on a walk, or with family at home. It’s just another conversation.
To help, we’ve created conversation starters to guide you. Begin with curiosity. Ask questions. Listen. And remember, this isn’t a one-off discussion, it’s an ongoing conversation.
Watch how these conversations gave Heather and Paul peace of mind:
Take the next step
Starting the conversation is a powerful first step, but it’s not the whole picture. If you’re ready to get started, learn more here.
Dying to Know Day reminds us that these conversations aren’t about death, they’re about living with intention, clarity, and connection.
So, what’s a secret you’d like to share?