WA led the way on VAD. But now we're falling behind.

In 2019, Western Australia led the nation on Voluntary Assisted Dying. It was a landmark act of compassion - but it wasn't the final word. Today, too many terminally ill Western Australians are still suffering under the law: locked out by arbitrary eligibility rules, complex processes and inequity of access. Other states have already moved forward. WA risks falling behind on the very law we helped pioneer. By December 2024, voluntary assisted dying pursuant to the WA VAD Act has been available for three and a half years. The comprehensive annual reports of the VAD Board demonstrate that the law has been effective in alleviating the suffering of many Western Australians, and there is no evidence of abuse or overreach.

DWDWA had high hopes that the two-year review mandated by section 164 of the Act (Review) would be rigorous, far-reaching, evidence-based and meaningful. Sadly, it was none of those things. In consultation with its members and supporters, DWDWA has come to the conclusion that the Act should be amended: see here for DWD's proposed amendments to the VAD Act.

We're calling for reform that makes Voluntary Assisted Dying clearer, safer and better for Western Australians - fairer eligibility, more equitable access, with clear safeguards. The VAD Board and others have already recommended improvements. It's time to end unnecessary suffering and red tape for WA people and their families. 

Priority reform areas include:
• Fairer eligibility criteria
• Advance requests for dementia
• More equitable access across WA

Because when end-of-life choices are fair and accessible, families can stop fighting red tape and focus on what matters: being together, and living with dignity until the end.

It's time to finish the job. 

Please sign to show your support today.

Find out more about the original 2019 campaign here. 
Donate to support the work of Dying with Dignity here. 

Become a supporting member of Dying with Dignity here.