Voluntary Assisted Dying
In Australia, ‘voluntary assisted dying’ is an end-of-life option available to people who meet a set of eligibility criteria as set out by the State in which they live. It is a way of dying that allows a person to seek medical assistance to end their life.
What is voluntary assisted dying?
Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) refers to a legal process in which a person, with the support of medical professionals, chooses to end their life at a time of their own choosing. In other parts of the world, medical practices similar to VAD are known by other terms including physician-assisted suicide, active voluntary euthanasia, physician-assisted death, and medical assistance in dying (MAiD). Unlike other end-of-life medical treatments aimed at relieving pain and managing symptoms, the purpose of Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is to allow a person to intentionally and legally bring about their death.
Who is eligible for voluntary assisted dying?
Access to Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is governed by state-specific legislation in Australia, and the eligibility requirements can vary depending on where you live. Generally, an adult (aged 18 or over) must be assessed by at least two independent medical practitioners and meet several eligibility criteria set out in their state’s laws.
In general, to be eligible for Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD), a person must have been diagnosed with a disease, illness, or medical condition that is advanced, progressive, and terminal. It must be expected to cause their death within six months, or within 12 months for individuals with a neurodegenerative condition. The condition must also be causing suffering that the person finds intolerable and that cannot be relieved in a manner they consider acceptable. Additionally, the person must be assessed as having decision-making capacity specific to VAD, meaning they are able to understand, retain, and evaluate relevant information, and clearly communicate their decision. An applicant must also meet citizenship and residency requirements.
How does someone access voluntary assisted dying?
A person seeking access to voluntary assisted dying must follow a formal, structured process, which varies slightly between States but generally follows a similar framework. Typically, this involves making an initial verbal request, followed by a second and then a final written request. Throughout the process, the individual must be assessed by at least two independent medical practitioners and demonstrate decision-making capacity at each stage. A second opinion is also required to confirm eligibility under the relevant State’s legislation.
It is important to be aware that accessing VAD may require considerable planning and time. Patients considering this as an end of life option should discuss this with their medical practitioner at the earliest possible opportunity.
Further information
You can explore more detailed guidance and resources on voluntary assisted dying through the following links and organisations:
- Health Direct
- Go Gentle Australia
- Grieflineon 1300 845 745
- Grief Australiaon 1800 642 066
- Lifeline 13 11 14 or chat online, 24 hours a day
- End of life law in Australia
- ELDAC Overview of Voluntary Assisted Dying
Government based services can be found here.
Tasmania
Voluntary Assisted Dying Navigation Service
📞 1800 568 956
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Victoria
Statewide Care Navigator Service
📞 (03) 8559 5823
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Western Australia
Queensland
Queensland Voluntary Assisted Dying Support Service
📞 1800 431 371
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New South Wales
NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service
📞 1300 802 133
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South Australia
SA Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service
📞 0403 087 390
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Australian Capital Territory
ACT Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service
📞 02 5124 1888
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Northern Territory
Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation was passed by the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly on 27 August 2026. Voluntary Assisted Dying will start operation in the Northern Territory in 2028.
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