NSW legalises voluntary assisted dying
Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) has now been legalised in all six states – but not the territories – with NSW passing its own bill in a conscience vote after protracted debate.
From the end of 2023, VAD will available to all adults who are suffering due to terminal illnesses with prognoses of less than six months (or twelve months for degenerative neurological conditions), and give voluntary and enduring consent.
Patients will need to receive approval from two senior doctors who have completed mandatory training, and will be able to administer their own VAD medication or have a doctor do it for them.
According to Independent MP Alex Greenwich (pictured above, centre), who introduced the bill to Parliament, the Territories should be allowed to legalise VAD as well.
The move has met with concern from religious groups and faith-based aged care providers, with organisations such as HammondCare saying palliative care is the preferred option over VAD.