The Finocchiaro CLP Government has passed its Rights of the Terminally Ill legislation, nearly 30 years after it was banned by the Federal Government.
Vote passed with unanimous support of all CLP MLAs.
The historic moment comes after decades of advocacy, consultation, and debate.
History was made tonight when the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly passed the Rights of the Terminally Ill Bill 2026, delivering a critical reform more than 30 years in the making.
The Territory first legalised voluntary assisted dying in 1995, becoming the first place in Australia to do so, but the law was overturned when it was banned by Canberra in 1997.
Tonight, the right was reinstated when the Parliament voted in favour of the Bill, with the unanimous support of all CLP MLAs.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the vote was a historic moment for the Northern Territory.
“The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to have developed and delivered voluntary assisted dying so that Territorians have choice,” the Chief Minister said.
“This is a historic moment in the Territory’s history and I thank everyone who has played a part in it.”
Attorney General Marie-Clare Boothby acknowledged that there were differing views on the reforms.
“This is a deeply personal issue for many Territorians, and it goes to the heart of many of our core values as a Territory – certainty, compassion, and the freedom to choose,” Minister Boothby said.
“We heard from many Territorians, with varying and sincerely-held views: through personal conversations, public consultations, and parliamentary committees.
“I appreciate that, on every element of these laws, not everyone has agreed. But what we saw was the best of the CLP – and of Territorians: robust, open, and respectful debate.”
NT Health will now be tasked with implementing the Rights of the Terminally Ill reforms over the next 18 months, with a statutory review of the Act required three years after commencement.
Minister Boothby concluded: “After fighting to be heard on these crucial rights, Territorians know that the CLP will deliver on our commitments every day of the week.”
