Territorians deserve to have high quality care throughout their life and this is the same for end of life care.
The Northern Territory Government is commencing a community consultation process for the development of a framework for Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) that will be suited to our needs for accessible and safe care.
We were pioneers in VAD in 1995 with The Rights of the Terminally Ill Act (1995) and now we will build upon that knowledge base and the experience nationally and internationally to create a contemporary framework.
An independent Expert Advisory Panel will be commissioned to lead the consultation process under the Inquiries Act 1945.
The Panel will be led by two eminent co-chairs, The Hon Vicki O’Halloran AO CVO and Mr Duncan McConnel SC. Additional panel members are still being finalised, but will have the requisite skills, knowledge and understanding of the NT and its people.
To make sure there is a wide range of views on the panel, the Government is seeking interested parties to work with the Co-Chairs on this consultation process.
The independent Panel will be guided by Terms of Reference and they will listen to the views of our community to shape the framework with all the necessary safeguards for Territorians. The Panel will provide a written report to the NT Government by July 2024.
To view the Terms of Reference visit here and to apply to sit on the panel email [[email protected]]
Quotes attributed to Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:
“Voluntary Assisted Dying is a complex issue and one that many people feel passionate about. Territorians deserve to have a say on how they want these laws to work in the Territory to suit our needs.
“It can be a sensitive and confronting topic for many people so it is important that any future legislation is done through intensive and thorough consultation with all Territorians. This is why we have set up this panel of experts to talk with the community and get a wide range of views.”
Quotes attributed to Expert Advisory Co-Chair The Hon Vicki O’Halloran AO CVO:
“Voluntary Assisted Dying is an issue that all Territorians deserve to have their voices heard.
“This is an imperative step forward for the Territory and I am honoured to play my part in this important consultation process. I look forward re-connecting with Territorians far and wide, to capture their views on what we know is important legislation for us to consider in 2024.”
Quotes attributed to Expert Advisory Co-Chair Mr Duncan McConnel SC:
“The Northern Territory should not be left behind on this important question of human rights, individual rights and adequate community support for end of life decisions. The Northern Territory is a unique place, so meaningful consultation and consideration of this issue across diverse cultures and communities is essential.
“Along with my other panel members we will endeavour to speak to as many Territorians as possible so we are fully informed on any potential Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation.”
Northern Territory Government
