Executive Director, Euthanasia Prevention Coalition
When Victoria was debating euthanasia, in order to get the bill passed, they agreed to a bill with several "safeguards" including a 6 month terminal illness prognosis and the requirement that doctors cannot initiate the discussion around euthanasia.
Similar to nearly every jurisdiction that has legalized euthanasia or assisted suicide Victoria is now considering expanding their euthanasia law to include a 12 month terminal illness prognosis, a reduction in the waiting period and allowing physicians to introduce the topic of euthanasia.
Callum Godde and Holly Hales reported for AAP news that:
A ban on Victorian health practitioners raising voluntary assisted dying (VAD) with terminally ill patients would be lifted under legislation set to be introduced to state parliament in 2025.
The government also wants to mandate practitioners' providing a bare minimum of information to patients if asked about the end-of-life process, even if they object.
Under the reforms, the life expectancy barrier for eligibility would be extended from six to 12 months for all patients, a third assessment requirement for neurodegenerative patients removed and the time between first and final VAD requests shortened from nine to five days.
A requirement would be added for people to be an Australian permanent resident for at least three years and an exemption for those who haven't lived in Victoria for 12 months to get access if they have a "substantial connection" to the state.
According to Godde and Hales, the Green Party believes that the proposal doesn't go far enough. The Green Party wants to eliminate the requirement of a terminal prognosis.
The Australian Care Alliance reports that as of June 30, 2024 there have been at least 1282 people who have died by euthanasia in Victoria Australia. Victoria Australia allows euthanasia and assisted suicide.
People are afraid to go to a Doctor now , especially the elderly and those who are very sick as they will be murdered instead of helped, pressured into death. Why do murderers think they have the authority over another to take their life. This should be a crime….it is a crime…..and sentencing for those who murder others and trying to pass laws to kill others.
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