Frequently asked questions
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This new $5 million grant is open to publically funded community-based palliative care agencies. It is intended to assist them in supporting more Victorians with life-limiting illness to be cared for, and to die in, their place of choice.
The grant is 'one-off' (non-recurrent) and will provide funds to a maximum of $50,000 per item for equipment, technology and building modifications.
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Applications to the 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant are restricted to publically funded community-based palliative care organisations in Victoria.
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Residential aged care facilities are not eligible to apply.
Community-based palliative care agencies can apply to fund equipment or technology that may be used by a resident in an aged care facility. The resident must also be registered to receive care from the palliative care agency.
The palliative care agency owns purchased equipment and is responsible for ongoing repair and maintenance.
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Publically funded community-based palliative care agencies in Victoria can apply to the 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant for one-off funds to a maximum of $50,000 per item.
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Funds from the 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant can contribute to the cost of the purchase or lease of assistive equipment and infrastructure, and building modifications.
Assistive equipment and technology may be for the use of a specific individual or a number of individuals.
Infrastructure modifications may include, but are not restricted to:
- upgrading of communication technology to enable staff on the road to stay in contact with home base
- upgrading of patient information systems to enable staff on the road to access and update client records
- building modifications to support carer and client education and training
- modifications to current premises to support bereavement care.
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All equipment and infrastructure must comply with Australian standards.
Examples of items that can be funded through the 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant include, but are not limited to:
Equipment category
Examples
Communication
Portable / mobile duress alarms, communication devices, computer-based communication aids and software
Medication administration
Syringe drivers
Beds
Electric, adjustable hospital-grade beds
Pressure care
Pressure relieving mattresses, cushions
Mobility
Standing equipment, portable ramps, rails
Personal care
Raised toilet seats, hand held showers
Seating
Lift recliners, wheelchairs
Lifting and transferring
Hoists
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Purchased or leased equipment and technology is to be used by individuals receiving home-based palliative care delivered by the service provider. The service provider assumes ownership of the equipment and is responsible for ongoing repair and maintenance.
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Infrastructure modifications must support the service to meet the needs of community-based palliative care patients. Building modifications may include, but are not exclusive to:
- upgrade of communication technology to enable staff on the road to stay in contact with home base
- upgrade of patient information systems to enable staff on the road to access and update client records
- building modifications to support carer and client education and training
- modifications to current premises to support bereavement care.
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The 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant excludes:
- recurrent activities such as staff salaries and wages together with financial support for funded palliative care activity as outlined in the 2016 Policy and Funding Guidelines
- equipment and infrastructure that has already been funded through a Victorian or Commonwealth Government program or grant
- major capital upgrading of service providers' facilities or privately rented buildings.
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The following documents are required to form an application package:
- Department of Health and Human Services application form
- written submission with a detailed description of the equipment or infrastructure and the overall cost of each item. The submission must include an explanation of how each item will support home-based care and, where applicable, reduce occupational health and safety risks
- a statement demonstrating value for money
- evidence that the equipment and technology to be purchased complies with Australian standards.
All applications must be signed by the organisation's Chief Executive Officer, or in their absence, a nominated delegate.
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Applications close 5.00pm, Thursday 13 April 2017.
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Applications will be considered by an assessment panel convened by the Department of Health & Human Services. The panel will have relevant sector representation. The panel may request more information or a meeting with some applicants to determine the eligibility and appropriateness of the application.
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Each application will be assessed according to the following criteria:
- whether it complies with the 2017 equipment and infrastructure grant guidelines
- whether the equipment, technology or building modifications will assist the service provider to support people receiving home-based palliative care, and their families and carers
- how the equipment, technology or building modifications will reduce occupational health and safety risks
- whether the item is the most economical and functionally appropriate choice
- whether funds are available to support the application.
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Applicants will be notified in writing of the decision within four weeks of the panel meeting. The letter will include the rationale for the decision and details about the funding that is approved.
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For further information please contact Theresa Williamson, Manager Palliative Care, on telephone (03) 9096 2050 or email theresa.williamson@dhhs.vic.gov.au.
Downloads
Reviewed 03 March 2017