LAST year, 52 patients died while waiting for hospice care at Ipswich Hospice Care – a stark reminder of the urgent need for expanded services and funding.
Established in 1995, the fully accredited private hospital provides inpatient palliative care, community nursing outreach, and bereavement support.
Now celebrating 30 years of service, the Hospice is seeking to expand in response to Ipswich’s rapidly growing and ageing population.
“We are currently operating with seven beds, and 55 per cent of our operating budget comes from Federal and State Government, with the remaining 45 per cent dependent on donations, fundraising, and bequests,” CEO Gail Rogers said.
Despite the tight budget, plans are underway to increase capacity to 10 beds by early 2026, with minimal additional operating costs.
To future-proof care, Ipswich Hospice is developing a 30-year strategy that will look to include a larger facility with a 30-bed increase.
Early discussions have begun with local MPs, hospitals, and health providers – including Mater Springfield, St Andrew’s, and West Moreton Health – all of whom agree the need is urgent.
Each year, the Hospice supports more than 1000 families, offering gentle, respectful care at the most vulnerable time in people’s lives.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said he had met with Hospice leaders recently and would continue to advocate for increased funding and long-term support.
“There are so many families in Ipswich who have been touched by Ipswich Hospice at one time or another,” Mr Neumann said.
“This is a beloved institution that has been providing palliative care, counselling, and other services to local families for 30 years now.
“I want to congratulate Ipswich Hospice on this milestone and thank them for their incredible contribution to our community.
“We are lucky to have them, and I’ll continue to support their efforts moving forward.”
Built by the Ipswich community, the Hospice now relies on the support of 72 committed volunteers and a wide base of community donors.
“Our service couldn’t grow the way it has in Brisbane,” Ms Rogers said.
“We were built by the community, and we continue to rely heavily on that unique sense of community that only Ipswich has to meet current and future needs.”
