The Victorian Government has made changes to the state’s voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws to make the service more accessible to those suffering from terminal illnesses.

Key among the 13 proposed amendments to the 2017 legislation is the removal of a provision that previously prevented doctors from discussing VAD as an option with patients looking into end-of-life choices. This shift is poised to open up more transparent conversations between medical professionals and those contemplating their options.

Additionally, the government plans to extend the life expectancy criteria for eligibility from six months to a year, acknowledging the varying timelines of terminal illnesses. For patients with degenerative diseases, the required number of consenting doctors has been reduced from three to two, simplifying the process for those seeking assistance.

Premier Jacinta Allan expressed that these legislative updates are designed to make the VAD process more accessible and equitable while maintaining rigorous safety standards. “People who are terminally ill and suffering in pain deserve the choice to live out their last days with dignity,” Allan stated, underscoring the compassionate intent behind these changes.

“People who are terminally ill and suffering in pain deserve the choice to live out their last days with dignity,” she said

“We’re reforming [VAD] to make it clearer and more compassionate for patients and their families, while keeping the safeguards secure.”

Victoria was the first state to introduce VAD laws in the 21st century, with all states having followed suit since then.

The ACT is set to introduce laws of its own next month, whilst the Northern Territory currently has no VAD laws, having been scrapped in 1997 by the federal government at the time.

In Victoria, people can ask for voluntary assisted dying if they have an advanced disease that will cause their death and is causing the person suffering that is unacceptable to them.

They must be over the age of 18, have lived in Victoria for the past year, and have the ability to make the request themselves.

The state’s health minister said the new changes now bring Victoria’s laws into line with those of other states, and have also taken into account feedback from doctors in the state.

“We know our Australian-first VAD laws work to alleviate suffering and give Victorians a safe choice – but we know we need to bring them into line with other states, so more Victorians can live out their final days on their own terms,” Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.

“We’ve listened to doctors who have told us they want to have open, honest conversations with patients about all their end-of-life options, so they can make safe and informed decisions.”