1241 Dying to know campaign: how communities embrace ACP; insights and tips from the field!

<h3></h3> How do we help people imagine their future—both in life and in death—while they’re still well? And how is it that our <i>Dying to Know</i> campaign invites people into conversations about death and dying that are not only deeply engaging and eye-opening, but often filled with laughter? <i>Dying to Know</i> is a public health campaign that’s been running for over 14 years. Each August, people across Australia host gatherings that spark meaningful conversations about end-of-life planning, values, and experiences. Every year, around 200 events are registered with the campaign, and this September, we’re excited to share insights from these community-led events with conference delegates. Increasing the number of advance care directives in Australia requires a holistic approach—one that celebrates the many ways people engage with death and dying. These conversations should begin not in hospitals or nursing homes, but around kitchen tables, in local libraries, and within communities—before a diagnosis or crisis occurs. Our presentation will showcase powerful, moving, and often humorous stories from this year’s <i>Dying to Know</i> events. These gatherings help surface people’s values, stories, and experiences. One surprising insight we’ve discovered is that many people feel more comfortable discussing these topics with strangers before opening up to family and friends. The campaign focuses on three core goals: Normalising conversations about end-of-life to make them easier and more accessible. Providing education and resources on advance care planning and related documentation. Challenging social stigma around death and dying to foster a more open and accepting culture. This year, we’re adding a fourth goal: launching a <b>national seed grant program</b> to support the creation of new <i>Dying to Know</i> events. We hope this initiative will further fuel community engagement and inspire delegates to get involved in the 2026 campaign. <i>Dying to Know</i> is run by <b>Proveda</b>, a Sydney-based charity whose vision is for everyone—especially older Australians and those living with disabilities, mental health challenges, or dementia—to feel a sense of belonging and connection. We believe in the power of collective expertise and community-led action. This will be our first time attending the Advance Care Planning International Conference, and we’re eager to connect grassroots efforts with professionals working in the field. We promise to bring stories that are funny, heartwarming, and transformative—stories that show what’s possible when communities come together to talk about life, death, and everything in between. Thank you—we’re dying to share more with you!