Orange City Council is inviting community members to take part in My Care Future, a series of workshops, designed to help people reflect, talk, and plan for the future through creating their own Advance Care Directive (ACD).
Participants will also have the opportunity to receive support from a peer volunteer during the process.
Orange City Council Services Policy Committee Chair Cr Marea Ruddy said the workshops are about more than paperwork, they're about peace of mind.
"Planning ahead for your future care is one of the most empowering and compassionate things you can do, for yourself and for the people you love," Cr Ruddy said.
"These workshops give our community the tools and confidence to make choices that truly reflect their values, beliefs and wishes."
An Advance Care Directive is a legal document that lets you record what matters most to you. Your wishes for future health care, end-of-life decisions, and personal matters.
Having a plan in place can relieve stress and uncertainty for family and friends, helping them understand and honour your choices if you're ever unable to communicate them yourself.
Developed from a successful program by the City of Onkaparinga in South Australia, My Care Future takes a peer-led approach, with trained local volunteers guiding small, friendly groups through open and respectful conversations about future care.
Orange City Council is at the forefront of the My Care Future project, partnering with Orange Aboriginal Medical Service and Connecting Community Services in Dubbo to create a culturally safe, coordinated approach that broadens the project's reach and supports communities across the region in planning for their future care. My Care Future Project is funded by the Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) to deliver the Greater Choice for At Home Palliative Care.
"Planning ahead isn't just about the future, it's about taking control today, and giving yourself and your loved ones the gift of certainty," Cr Ruddy said.
Council is also seeking volunteers to support the program. Volunteers will help participants put what they've learned into action. No prior experience is needed, full training and ongoing support are provided.
My Care Future Project is funded by the Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) to deliver the Greater Choice for At Home Palliative Care.
Workshop details:
Dates:
November 2025 - 18, 20, 25, 27
December 2025 - 4, 9, 11, 16, 18
More workshops to be announced in 2026.
Format: Small group sessions (maximum 20 participants)
Cost: Free
Location: West Room, located at the Orange Regional Gallery
