This policy briefing presents evidence from research in support of three key amendments proposed to Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) Act. It also identifies an omission in the proposed law changes, which should be addressed. The policy briefing draws on three key studies.

The research shows why three of the proposed amendments to the Victorian VAD Act are urgently needed. One important omission from the amendments is addressing the harms caused by institutional objection. The Victorian amendments should address institutional objection as four other Australian jurisdictions do. Legislation should require institutions to be transparent about their position and provide greater protection for patient access to VAD. 

Key findings

• Health practitioners should be able to raise VAD with patients – the research overwhelmingly supports removing the 'gag clause' in Victorian law.
• Extending the expected time to death to 12 months – the time required for the VAD application process can be a barrier.
• Conscientiously objecting health practitioners should provide VAD contact details – conscientious objection was a major barrier to accessing VAD.
• Objections by institutions are a significant barrier to accessing VAD.