Letter to the editor: voluntary assisted dying

The Andrews Labor Government has accepted the recommendations of the Expert Ministerial Advisory Panel’s report on Voluntary Assisted Dying, and is now working on legislation to bring before the Parliament in the coming months. The recommendations accepted by government include 68 safeguards – making it the most conservative Voluntary Assisted Dying model in the world.

I am proud of the work our Government and healthcare services are doing to improve end-of life care in Victoria including better funding for palliative care.

I also know that for some people pain and suffering towards the end of life cannot be alleviated and that some of these people want an option to control the manner and timing of their death.

I know people have strong views on this issue, however scare campaigns like the inaccurate and reckless pamphlet recently distributed by Right to Life have no part in a respectful debate.

I want to make it perfectly clear that this pamphlet did not come from my office and I do not support the information or content outlined in it.

As your representative, I want to hear from you and will continue to listen to your opinions, hear about your experiences and work with you to ensure that we develop a legislation that is both safe and compassionate.

Please share with me you experiences and thoughts at mary-anne.thomas@parliament.vic.gov.au or speak to one of my staff members on 5422 2138 If you, or someone you care about, is in crisis call Lifeline 13 11 14 or beyondblue support service line 1300 22 46 36.