Voices From Voluntary Assisted Dying

The world’s first voluntary assisted dying law to be enacted and used was passed in Australia’s Northern Territory – only to be overturned months later by the Federal Parliament. The man behind that historic legislation is Marshall Perron. As Chief Minister of the Northern Territory from 1988 to 1995, he introduced the Rights of the Terminally Ill Act, a groundbreaking and controversial step forward in end-of-life choice.  The law was overturned by the Australian Federal Parliament in March 1997 through the Euthanasia Laws Act 1997, which removed the power of territories (like the Northern Territory) to legislate on euthanasia.  For the first time publicly, Marshall Perron shares his thoughts on the process: the political determination it required, the national and international fallout, and the personal decision to resign before the final vote. He also shares his disappointment that the Territory – once a pioneer – remains the only jurisdiction in Australia without VAD laws.  NTVES (Northern Territory Voluntary Euthanasia Society) https://ntves.org.au/  COTA NT (Council on the Ageing, Northern Territory) https://www.cotant.org.au/ Northern Territory Government – Parliamentary (Committees / Legal & Constitutional Affairs)  More information on into “Voluntary Assisted Dying in the Northern Territory – Second Interim Report, September 2025” https://parliament.nt.gov.au/committees/list/legal-and-constitutional-affairs-committee/VAD  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Lynn Arnold once stood firmly against voluntary assisted dying (VAD). Initially concerned about the potential for abuse, his perspective changed after witnessing the prolonged suffering of his cousin and, later, supporting his mother through her own VAD journey. Her decision, carried out with dignity and care, revealed to him the system’s safeguards and the emotional depth of choosing death on one’s own terms.  The Honourable Reverend Dr Lynne Arnold is a former state parliamentarian and premier of South Australia. He has held leadership roles with World Vision and Anglicare SA. Today he serves as an assistant priest at St Peter’s Anglican Cathedral, a theology lecturer at St Barnabas Theological College, and a patron or ambassador for numerous organisations including the Don Dunstan Foundation, Reconciliation SA, and the United Nations Association of Australia.  He speaks candidly about the internal conflict, the healing power of compassionate medical care, and the importance of support for both the person choosing VAD and their loved ones. He also discusses how his theological views evolved, emphasising the Anglican Church’s openness to individual conscience on the matter.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.   If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services:  Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Voluntary assisted dying isn’t just about law – it’s about people, compassion, and choice. Dr Peter Allcroft, one of South Australia’s most influential leaders in palliative care and voluntary assisted dying, shares how his professional journey has led him to this deeply meaningful work.  Starting as a respiratory and sleep physician, Peter transitioned into palliative care, driven by a desire to support patients through every stage of life-limiting illness, particularly motor neurone disease. Now Chair of Palliative Care Australia and co-clinical lead for South Australia’s VAD services, he discusses the emotional depth, ethical complexity, and clinical evolution of end-of-life care. Peter explores the importance of patient-centred decisions and the quiet power of listening, empathy, and dignity at life’s end.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services:  Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Casey Haining is a Research Fellow and PhD candidate at the Australian Centre for Health Law Research at QUT and also holds a research position at the University of Melbourne. Her academic work focuses on health law and end-of-life care, particularly voluntary assisted dying (VAD) and dementia.  Casey discusses the complexities of VAD eligibility for people with dementia, especially around decision-making capacity and prognosis requirements under Australian legislation. She compares international approaches, such as those in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Canada, which permit access under broader criteria or via advance directives. Casey also shares insights into her current research, including an exploratory study on VAD and dementia in Australia, aiming to inform future policy development through citizen juries and practitioner engagement.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With nearly 40 years’ experience as a general practitioner, Dr Nick Carr was one of the first GPs trained in VAD in Victoria. He reflects on the privilege of supporting patients at the end of life, describing VAD experiences as deeply moving and often profoundly beautiful. He discusses his advocacy with Dying with Dignity Victoria, the emotional and practical challenges of the work, and the pressing need for law reform. Dr Carr also highlights workforce shortages, the role of mentorship, and the growing public demand for access to VAD, especially among those with dementia or chronic suffering. Dying With Dignity Victoria https://www.dwdv.org.au/  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rev Dr Anna Grant-Henderson, a Uniting Church minister, reflects on her journey toward supporting VAD, shaped by personal experiences, parish ministry, and theological insights. Anna shares her role in supporting a congregant through VAD, her views on pastoral care, and the varied positions of different Synods across Australia.  She advocates for the Church to provide clear resources to guide ministers and communities navigating end-of-life decisions. The discussion also explores scriptural interpretation, community response, and the emotional and spiritual dimensions of death and dying. Anna calls for greater compassion, clarity, and openness in how faith communities approach VAD and the people it affects.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben White is Professor of End-of-Life Law and Regulation at QUT’s Australian Centre for Health Law Research. With over 200 publications and $45 million in research funding, his work focuses on voluntary assisted dying (VAD), law reform, and end-of-life decision-making.  Ben discusses the slow road to VAD legalisation in Australia, the patchwork of state laws, and barriers to access – such as gag clauses for clinicians, telehealth restrictions, and institutional objections.  He shares concerning findings that only 33% of Queenslanders know VAD is legal, and fewer than two-thirds of health professionals are aware. He emphasises the need to normalise VAD as part of end-of-life care, alongside palliative treatment and active care, to improve patient understanding and choice.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Letting go – of control, fear, and clinging – is not a failure, but a path to peace, compassion, and deep spiritual clarity at the end of life.  Carol Perry, a teacher with Melbourne Insight Meditation, brings over 45 years of experience in the Insight (Vipassana) tradition of Buddhism. Carol explores how Buddhist teachings on impermanence, suffering, and letting go intersect with the realities of Voluntary Assisted Dying.  Drawing from personal stories, ancient suttas, and her retreat discussions with Laureen, Carol unpacks the Buddhist view of death not as an enemy to fight, but as a profound opportunity to release suffering. With compassion at the heart of her reflections, she reframes VAD as an act of love and clarity – not harm. Her message is both grounding and empowering: spiritual wisdom resides in lived experience and present-moment awareness.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services:  Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tianna and Kate both work within South Australia’s Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) service. Tianna, a VAD liaison officer, and Kate, a VAD care navigator, assist individuals navigating the VAD process. They discuss the support they provide, from initial inquiries to coordinating assessments and ensuring patients and families feel informed and supported. They reflect on their motivations for joining the VAD service, the challenges within the system – such as legislative restrictions and limited practitioner involvement – and the deeply personal experiences of those choosing VAD. Both highlight the importance of choice, autonomy, and dignity in end-of-life care. They emphasise the need for more trained practitioners to sustain the service. Through their experiences, they’ve witnessed the profound impact VAD has on patients and families, reinforcing the value of compassionate, informed, and patient-centred care.   Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eve’s mother, Marion, accessed voluntary assisted dying in 2023 after living with multiple chronic health conditions. Eve reflects on her mother’s resilience, selflessness, and determination to maintain control over her life despite significant challenges. She also describes the difficulties they encountered during the application process, delays in approval, and the emotional toll on their family. Ultimately, Eve recounts her mother’s peaceful final moments and how this experience has motivated her to advocate for improvements in voluntary assisted dying legislation.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowan’s mum Felicia, was born in a refugee camp before immigrating to Australia as a young child. Despite lifelong visual impairment Felicia went on to become a Professor of psychology at Cambridge University and a founder of the positive psychology movement. Felicia developed end stage breast cancer and accessed VAD in August 2024. Rowan discusses Felicia’s journey through the Voluntary Assisted Dying process utilising the power of positive psychology.  Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services:  Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite much progress with voluntary assisted dying in Australia, challenges still exist, including the need for streamlined processes, expanded access, and support for healthcare professionals to ensure compassionate end-of-life care. Dr Linda Swan, CEO of Go Gentle Australia, shares her journey into advocating for end-of-life choice, emphasising the need for continuous improvement in VAD delivery.  Go Gentle's priorities include normalising VAD and ensuring integrated, compassionate care, supported by public donations. The discussion underscores the urgency of accessible, patient-centred end-of-life options. MORE INFORMATION Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services:  Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745  Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745  Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many families find it difficult to navigate the complexities of voluntary assisted dying (VAD).  That’s according to Jane Nosworthy and Kerrie Arthur. Jane is a Board member of Dying with Dignity Victoria. Jane brings to the board her lived experience of supporting a family member to access VAD, as well as her professional background as a lawyer and social worker. Kerrie is a counsellor and group facilitator with Griefline. With a background in social work that underpins her practice, she has become an advocate for voluntary assisted dying (VAD). They were both part of a twelve month pilot program of voluntary assisted dying-specific bereavement support groups that Dying with Dignity Victoria and Griefline partnered to deliver in 2023 and 2024. They discuss the importance of death literacy, addressing stigma, and providing support for families during and after the process. Programs like grief support groups and drop-in sessions aim to offer ongoing emotional support to caregivers. If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 is available 8am-8pm seven days a weekGrief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day To register your interest in participating in a VAD-specific support group, go to: https://griefline.org.au/get-help/vad-support-groups/  Dying With Dignity Victoria - https://www.dwdv.org.au/  For information about one-to-one peer support in Victoria provided by Dying With Dignity Victoria, go to: https://www.dwdv.org.au/our-services/vad-support/ To read more about VAD and grief, go to: https://griefline.org.au/understanding-voluntary-assisted-dying-and-its-impact-on-grief-white-paper/ Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carolyn, a long-time GP, shares her profound journey through medicine and palliative care, highlighting her dedication to voluntary assisted dying (VAD). Initially aspiring to be a vet, she pursued medicine, drawn by her fascination with the human body and her love for longitudinal care. Her experiences with patients and personal family losses, including her parents and two children with hereditary conditions, deepened her understanding of death and grief. Inspired by these experiences and early family discussions on euthanasia, Carolyn became a passionate advocate for VAD. She has since supported over 140 patients, finding it rewarding to offer dignity, peace, and choice in their final moments. Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department. If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alison's mother, Linda, was a long-term resident of South Australia, who decided to move to New South Wales in the final months of her life to be cared for by Alison and her husband.  NSW, like most Australian states  require an applicant for VAD to reside in the state for at least the previous twelve months.  Linda was the first person in NSW to apply for and receive an exemption to this rule. Alison shares Linda’s journey and her family's experiences with VAD. Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department. If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professor John Willoughby, a neurologist and advocate for voluntary assisted dying (VAD), reflects on his journey of supporting legislative change to ease end-of-life suffering. Prof Willoughby discusses current limitations in VAD laws, advocating for more accessible options, especially for patients with chronic conditions who face barriers to eligibility despite severe decline in quality of life. Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department. If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Janelle reflects on her mother’s decision to pursue Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) after a progressive illness. Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department. If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.