The Minister for Human Rights Tara Cheyne has today released a Listening Report summarising community and stakeholder feedback on the how the community would like to see a voluntary assisted dying model delivered in the ACT.
Knowing that the majority of Canberrans support voluntary assisted dying, with appropriate safeguards in place, the consultation focused on what model should be adopted rather than whether voluntary assisted dying should be lawful.
The Listening Report for the voluntary assisted dying consultation is now available online and captures views from the community, health professionals and stakeholders.
Minister for Human Rights Tara Cheyne said she was especially grateful for people who shared their personal stories.
"We would like to thank all contributors for their involvement in this consultation process," Minister Cheyne said.
"We heard from people who have cared for loved ones near the end of their lives, who live with terminal illness, or who anticipate they might suffer near the end of their lives. We also heard from health professionals who care for these people.
"We appreciate that so many people had the courage to share their powerful stories with us, to help shape better policy and outcomes for the ACT community."
More than 7,400 people visited the voluntary assisted dying YourSay Conversation webpage and more than 2,900 people responded to a YourSay Panel survey. In addition, the government:
- received 106 formal submissions
- received 366 other contributions from community members sharing their perspectives
- engaged with more than 300 stakeholders across eight roundtables, workshops, and meetings
Minister Cheyne said that most contributors generally supported the 'Australian model' which refers to the general approach taken in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and that will commence operating in New South Wales from November 2023.
Aspects of the 'Australia model' that were supported include the need to have strict eligibility criteria, a thorough request process, the provision of support and information through a government-run Care Navigator Service and pharmacy service and an independent oversight body.
"We also heard support for some adjustments to the Australian model, building on the experiences of other jurisdictions," Minister Cheyne said. "This includes in relation to age, timeframe to death, and the role of health professionals."
"Importantly, there was clear support from a diverse range of contributors to ensure that voluntary assisted dying does not detract from the availability of quality palliative care," the Minister concluded.
The ACT Government will now develop a model for voluntary assisted dying that works for the ACT community, with a Bill to legalise voluntary assisted dying to be introduced in late 2023.
If legislation is debated and passed, it will take time for voluntary assisted dying to become available to eligible people in the ACT, with the necessary systems, safeguards, and processes to be developed and put in place.
You can register to receive project updates at YourSay.act.gov.au/VAD.
If the issue of voluntary assisted dying raises issues for you or your family, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Grief line on 1300 845 745.
