New South Wales pushes to open Australia’s first young adult hospice

The New South Wales Government has announced plans to develop the first hospice for young adults in Australia.

The hospice would provide respite and end-of-life care for people aged between 18 and 30.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Health Brad Hazzard today pledged  two million dollars of funding for the establishment of Big Bear Cottage on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Mr Hazzard said the proposed young adult hospice would be based on the model of Bear Cottage – the state’s only children's hospice, which is located in Manly.

“Bear Cottage has been providing incredible support and care for families with children who suffer life-limiting and terminal illnesses over the past 15 years,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Unfortunately, when children turn 18, they no longer have access to these services.

“The NSW Government has decided to back calls from families and staff at Bear Cottage to ensure young adults with life-limiting and terminal illnesses continue to receive these much needed services.”

Mr Hazzard said the state government would work to secure a location for Big Bear Cottage, possibly on the site of Manly Hospital.