Legislation for Voluntary Assisted Dying has now been passed in all Australian states. With the passage of the “Restoring Territory Rights” Bill this year, it is likely that VAD will soon be a legal end-of-life option for people in all of Australia.

 

Enactment of VAD legislation has not been without complexity. All states have subtly different eligibility requirements for patients seeking access and healthcare practitioners seeking to provide care. There are inconsistencies between clinicians in terms of assessment of prognostication. Widespread consultation has occurred in all regions during implementation, but this change has caused many to grapple with what is perceived to be a fundamental alteration to the ethical landscape.

 

The author will reflect on their journey from Emergency Physician, to agnostic VAD-trained practitioner, to advocate for VAD and Advance Care Planning as models that enable patients to access the care that is appropriate for them.