Tara Cheyne, ACT Minister for Human Rights, today released a Listening Report for the voluntary assisted dying consultation, summarising community and stakeholder feedback on how a voluntary assisted dying model should be delivered in the ACT.

When the Senate voted in December to end the ban on the ACT and the Northern Territory debating euthanasia, in place since 1997, the ACT Government announced it would consult the public, then prepare and release a listening report on the feedback provided during the consultation. 

Because most 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, Ms Cheyne said.

Most contributors generally supported the ‘Australian model’, which refers to the general approach taken in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and which will begin operating in New South Wales from November, Ms Cheyne said.

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.

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“We also heard support for some adjustments to the Australian model, building on the experiences o other jurisdictions,” Ms 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 report also showed that 85 per cent of people surveyed were already aware of the ACT Government’s intentions to introduce laws to legalise voluntary assisted dying.

84 per cent wanted to understand the eligibility criteria; 76 per cent the process for requesting and accessing voluntary assisted dying; 64 per cent the safeguards required to protect patient safety; and 63 per cent the role of family, friends or carers.

Canberrans suggested a broad range of expected criteria or safeguards, including requesting voluntary assisted dying prior to illness/injury (14 per cent); making voluntary assisted dying available for non-terminal conditions (13 per cent); and appropriate counselling options for those considering voluntary assisted dying (13 per cent).

Some respondents used the final open-ended questions as an opportunity to express their support or opposition to the idea. 20 per cent declared their general support for voluntary assisted dying, and shared personal stories of witnessing family or friends suffer for long periods of time. 12 per cent were opposed to voluntary assisted dying, and highlighted how it was against their moral or religious beliefs.

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; and
• engaged with more than 300 stakeholders across eight roundtables, workshops, and meetings.

Ms Cheyne thanked all contributors for their involvement in this consultation process. She was especially grateful for people who shared their personal stories.

“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.”

The ACT Government will now develop a model for voluntary assisted dying that works for the ACT community. A Bill to legalise voluntary assisted dying will be introduced towards the end of this year.

“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,” Ms Cheyne said.

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 Griefline on 1300 845 745.