I have introduced a Private Members Bill to Parliament to urge the Government to introduce a simple solution to fix an important issue related to the process of Voluntary Assisted Dying.  

VAD is an accepted part of our health system. Every state has passed legislation allowing VAD under strict conditions with Territories expected to legislate soon.  Each state has also enacted legislative safeguards and detailed processes to ensure this very serious decision is given appropriate weight.  

Telehealth is also hugely important in improving access for people in rural and remote Australia to a variety of health services. However, the Federal Criminal Code Act makes it an offence to counsel, promote, or provide instruction on suicide, using a carriage service. 

This means doctors and pharmacists are at risk of criminal prosecution if they use telehealth, email, text or phone calls in relation to any lawful voluntary assisted dying services.  People who are terminally ill and already have the right to VAD services  

• must travel for face-to-face appointments 

• are deprived of equal access to end-of-life services  

The problem is exacerbated in WA’s regions. I have heard heartbreaking stories of terminally ill people travelling long distances in agony to meet doctors for a consultation in a car park or to pick up a prescription. Pharmacists are also afraid to discuss processes with doctors over the phone.  

The solution to this problem is simple - a minor amendment to the Federal Criminal Code to establish Voluntary Assisted Dying is not suicide.  Multiple State Attorneys-General and Health Ministers have told me they are keen to see the Act amended to protect practitioners and enable greater access, particularly for regional patients. This is also supported by the medical profession, academics and patient advocate groups.   

The comprehensive support for VAD laws in every state demonstrates the value our community places on choice, dignity and compassion for people who are terminally ill and suffering. 

My bill calls on the Federal Government to fix this problem so that  all Australians, irrespective of their postcode, have equal access to this choice.