Eligible Canberrans are a step closer to being able to choose how and when they die after the ACT Government today introduced the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2023 in the Legislative Assembly.

The Bill sets out the government’s framework to provide eligible people with the right to make informed end-of-life choices that align with their preferences and values. It will ensure a safe and effective medical process with the support of health professionals and services.

The government has undertaken a thorough process of community and stakeholder consultation on an appropriate model. The Bill details the eligibility criteria and provides a process for qualified doctors and nurse practitioners to assess a person’s eligibility, advise on and support the person with their end-of-life options, and comply with safeguards.

While there was some strong support in consultation for allowing access to voluntary assisted dying for mature minors and for adults to be able to request voluntary assisted dying through advance care planning, significant further work would be required to develop a safeguarded model for these cohorts.

The Bill commits to a review being undertaken once voluntary assisted dying has been in operation in the ACT for three years and this review will further consider the issue of whether eligibility should be broadened to include voluntary assisted dying being available to mature minors and people who do not meet residency requirements, as well as through advanced care directives.

The legislation will be subject to review by a parliamentary committee before it is debated and passed into law. Once it has passed, systems, safeguards and processes will be put in place before voluntary assisted dying becomes available to eligible people in the ACT.

We have consulted widely to ensure the ACT model protects and promotes human rights and includes the necessary safeguards, without being unduly burdensome, and has the support of the Territory’s clinical community.

We are grateful to everyone who contributed to our consultation. We appreciate that so many people had the courage to share powerful personal stories with us, to help shape better policy and outcomes for the ACT community.

The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2023 and Explanatory Statement are available to read at the ACT Legislation Register.

If the issue of voluntary assisted dying raises issues for you or your family, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Griefline on 1300 845 745.

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