Dying to Know Day 2026
Dying to Know Day 2026: Because “Nobody Knows” Until We Talk About It
Each year on 8 August, Australians are encouraged to take part in Dying to Know Day, a national initiative dedicated to normalising conversations about death, dying, grief and end-of-life planning. Since 2013, the campaign has encouraged individuals, families and communities to become more comfortable discussing a topic that inevitably touches every life. [thephn.com.au], [proveda.com.au]
The 2026 Dying to Know Day theme, “Nobody Knows,” delivers a simple yet powerful message. Nobody knows our wishes unless we share them. Nobody knows what matters most to us at the end of life unless we have the courage to talk about it.
For many Australians, discussing death can feel uncomfortable. Yet avoiding these conversations often leaves loved ones facing uncertainty and difficult decisions during already emotional times. Dying to Know Day challenges us to replace silence with understanding and fear with preparation. It encourages people to explore advance care planning, wills, powers of attorney, funeral preferences and the many practical decisions that can provide clarity and peace of mind for those left behind. It could be as simple as the music we would like played at our farewell, these important details remain unknown until the conversations begin. Planning for our future can help us to die in line with our values and ensure that loved ones know what’s important to us.
As strong advocates of Dying to Know Day, Daniel Woods Funeral Care proudly supports the movement toward greater death literacy within our communities. Death literacy is more than understanding funeral arrangements. It is about knowing the services, support networks and planning options available, and having the confidence to discuss them with family and friends. Communities that embrace death literacy are better equipped to care for one another through life’s most challenging moments. It helps individuals make informed choices, communicate their wishes and support family members through some of life’s most challenging moments.
The theme “Nobody Knows” aligns closely with the philosophy of Daniel Woods Funeral Care. “Families often tell us they wish they had known more about their loved one's preferences before a death occurred. Through open conversations and thoughtful planning, those uncertainties can be transformed into confidence and reassurance. By encouraging people to discuss their wishes today, we help ensure that families are not left guessing tomorrow”. This year, Nobody Knows comes to life in the everyday moments where these conversations naturally unfold. These are not grand, formal discussions, they happen in real life. On a road trip, at a BBQ, between errands, between stories, between the people we care about most. This year, we are encouraging people to lean into these moments and start the conversation in their own way, creating space across generations to share what matters, however it is said. When we talk openly about death, we ultimately strengthen our ability to celebrate life, honour our wishes and support those we love.
Dying to Know community events are being held on Friday 7th August from 10am-12noon in Coolamon Library, Corowa CWA and Griffith Library. For further details contact Stephanie Dunstall, Palliative Care Nurse Educator, MLHD mob. 0428102041