Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) as an end-of-life treatment option is now lawful in all Australian states and appears likely to become lawful in the territories. The passing of these laws means that the topic of VAD may arise during advance care planning conversations. Health professionals have a responsibility to be open and ready to support the person to be heard, regardless of their personal views.
Drawing on research in The Medical Journal of Australia, the Australian Centre for Health Law Research (ACHLR) have partnered with Advance Care Planning Australia to assist health professionals by developing Guiding Principles for Health Professionals.
A PDF version [402KB] is now available online.