Members of the ACT Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board have met for the first time, in preparation of their role in overseeing, monitoring, and reporting on the operation of voluntary assisted dying in the ACT.
The Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board will take on an independent statutory role by reviewing forms submitted for voluntary assisted dying retrospectively, promoting continuous improvements, and ensuring functions and powers of all people involved comply with the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2024 to provide a community-focused model of care.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the recent appointment of the seven-member oversight board is a significant step to deliver safe, compassionate and accessible voluntary assisted dying in the ACT from 3 November 2025.
"Delivering a clear and robust voluntary assisted dying pathway from 3 November is a key priority for the ACT Government, and it is vital that we have strong governance, oversight and monitoring of the scheme once it begins," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"The Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board is pivotal in the ongoing monitoring of the scheme and we are fortunate to have such a high calibre of board members undertaking this role.
"There is a strong mix of senior clinicians, legal professionals, ethical and governance experts and those with first-hand experience of supporting people at end of life. I thank them for their commitment to serve on the board and fulfil this important function."
As part of its duties, the Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board will:
- monitor the operation of the voluntary assisted dying legislation
- monitor requests and applications for voluntary assisted dying
- research, analyse and report on information given to the Board under the legislation
- receive reports of key steps from authorised practitioners in someone's voluntary assisted dying process
- provide advice to the Minister
- where necessary, refer concerns to relevant dispute resolution or enforcement agencies.
"Canberrans strongly support the right for people to make end of life choices that align with their values and preferences. I look forward to hearing about the Board's work and insights as it supports clinicians, consumers and carers in the implementation of the ACT's voluntary assisted dying scheme," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Quotes attributable to Darlene Cox, Chair of the Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board:
"I am honoured to take on the role as Chair of the VAD Oversight Board and look forward to contributing to this important work. The members of the Board bring diverse skills, experiences and perspectives and are looking forward to our role.
"Voluntary Assisted Dying is about choice, control and compassion. It is the ultimate demonstration of consumer empowerment. The Board is committed to ensuring the scheme works, meets the needs of the people using the service, and supports those people delivering the service."
