National Advance Care Planning Week 16 - 22 March 2026

The Public Guardian and Trustee (PGT) is supporting National Advance Care Planning Week. Taking place from 16–22 March 2026, Territorians are encouraged to think about what matters most and plan for future health care and personal decisions.

This year’s national theme, “Your story, your choice,” highlights the importance of ensuring personal values and preferences guide decision-making if a person is ever unable to speak for themselves. Advance care planning helps people reflect on their wishes, talk with trusted supporters, and document decisions so they can be respected.

The Northern Territory’s unique approach – the Advance Personal Plan

The Northern Territory is unique within Australia because it has a single document — the Advance Personal Plan — that brings together advance care planning, personal decision-making and future planning into one framework.

An Advance Personal Plan allows a person to:

• record their values, preferences and future health care wishes
• give legally recognised consent or refusal for certain treatments
• appoint one or more trusted decision-makers
• provide guidance about personal matters such as accommodation, lifestyle and wellbeing
• outline cultural, spiritual or other personal considerations that should guide future decisions.

The Advance Personal Plan reflects the Northern Territory’s approach to supported decision-making by enabling people to plan ahead in a way that is flexible, person-centred and legally recognised.

Community engagement across the Darwin region

To mark the week, the PGT will host a series of community engagement activities at public libraries across the Regional Darwin area. These sessions aim to raise awareness of advance care planning, provide practical information about decision making options and encourage Territorians to start conversations with family and trusted supporters.

Information stalls will be held at the following locations:

• Litchfield Library (Coolalinga Central) – 13 March 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm
• Palmerston Library – 16 March 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm
• Casuarina Library – 23 March 2026, 9:30am–11:00am
• Karama Library – 27 March 2026, 10:00am–11:30am

The PGT will also engage with community organisations, including seniors’ groups and local stakeholders, to help promote a broader understanding of advance care planning and the supports available to Territorians.

Why advance care planning matters

Advance care planning is relevant for people of all ages and backgrounds. Planning ahead can help reduce uncertainty for families and health professionals, support culturally respectful decision-making, and ensure care reflects what matters most to the individual.

National Advance Care Planning Week encourages individuals, families and organisations to start conversations and learn more about planning ahead for future health care and personal decisions.

For more information about advance care planning resources, visit Advance Care Planning Australia or contact PGT for details about upcoming community sessions.