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Proposal to Loosen Euthanasia Laws: Doctors May Be Able to Suggest Assisted Death

Victoria will make major amendments to its assisted dying law, including allowing doctors to initiate the discussion, and reducing wait times.
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Proposal to Loosen Euthanasia Laws: Doctors May Be Able to Suggest Assisted Death
A man rides to a doctor's appointment with his wife in New York City on March 16, 2016. John Moore/Getty Images
Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
2/20/2025|Updated: 2/20/2025
0:00

Victoria intends to make major changes to its law on assisted dying, including allowing doctors to raise the topic with patients, which was previously forbidden.

People with terminal non-neurodegenerative diseases will be able to opt for voluntary assisted dying (VAD) when their life expectancy reaches 12 months, up from six. The process of applying for a permit will also be simplified, with less time required between the first and last VAD request.

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Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
Author
Rex Widerstrom is a New Zealand-based reporter with over 40 years of experience in media, including radio and print. He is currently a presenter for Hutt Radio.
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