Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) has now been available in South Australia for more than six weeks,
giving people with a terminal illness the right to make the choice to die with dignity under the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2021 (the Act).
The Act is operating as intended since it was passed on 31 January 2023, with all safeguards in place
working effectively. Under the Act, a person with a terminal illness may access voluntary assisted dying in South Australia if they meet all eligibility criteria.
In the first six weeks since the legislation was passed, 32 people have made a first request to commence the process to access the pathway, and 11 permits have been issued by SA Health.
For many reasons, not all people who make a formal first request or who receive a permit, proceed to
the final stage of the VAD process. SA Health is aware of at least six South Australians who have died
after being administered or self-administering a voluntary assisted dying substance in accordance with
the Act.
