In the United States the assisted suicide debate is gaining momentum. As of this year, over twenty states introduced bills to legalise the practice, and despite each bill having been struck down, it appears that the deliberation is far from over. The Hill reports: Continue reading

As New Zealand moves to vote on whether they should legalise assisted dying, a poll has revealed that most do not even understand what is meant by the term. The Curia research poll surveyed people about their views on “assisted dying,” and found that the more strongly that individuals supported it, the more likely they are to be confused about what it actually means. Continue reading

Assisted suicide was legalised in Victoria last month, making it the only jurisdiction in the world to do so in 2017. Not only was the legislation disappointing, but there were also many parts of the process that were expedited and conducted in manner that was not at all appropriate for an issue of life and death. Continue reading

Federal Member for Perth Tim Hammond spoke out against assisted suicide, pointing to the dangers it could lead to and the need for more comprehensive palliative care. Continue reading

In the face of Western Australia’s investigation into end of life choices last week, Australian Medical Association federal president Dr Michal Gannon addressed the state on the topic. Continue reading

Is it a mistake to see lawmaking on a life or death issue only through a prism of personal experience? Should politicians be required to weigh personal experience against an obligation to protect the most vulnerable in society when considering the laws before them? Continue reading

Dr Philip Nitschke, a vocal advocate for assisted suicide nicknamed “Dr Death,” has designed a suicide machine that gives anyone with a 3D printer the ability to kill themselves. Called the Sarco Capsule, the machine is open-sourced on the internet- meaning anyone with a 3D printer can download plans and construct it. Continue reading

Dr John Obeid, a geriatrician in Western Sydney, has voiced his opinion about why assisted suicide should not be an option for his elderly patients. Having cared for thousands of people approaching the end of their lives, he brings a vital perspective to the assisted suicide debate. Continue reading

We received great news on 16 November, as the euthanasia bill in NSW was narrowly defeated by a razor-thin margin of 20 votes to 19. The MLCs obviously listened to the serious concerns raised by doctors, lawyers and other professionals about the legislation and voted accordingly. Continue reading

Last week 43 Belgian psychiatrists, psychologists, and academics published an open letter demanding national debate on the issue of euthanasia and mental illness. These experts in the field state that the current law is too vague, and is resulting in many uncalled-for deaths. Continue reading