Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has spoken in Parliament in support of the Voluntary Assisted Dying Amendment Bill 2025, describing it as a necessary evolution of existing laws to better support Victorians, particularly those living in regional communities.
Ms Benham said the reforms do not introduce new laws but rather make practical changes to ensure the system remains compassionate, safe and accessible, while maintaining strong safeguards to ensure all decisions are voluntary, informed, and free from coercion.
“This Bill is about removing barriers and bringing Victoria’s legislation into line with other states, so that those facing terminal illness, regardless of where they live, are fully informed about their options and able to access Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) when they need it.”
The Bill introduces several key amendments, including:
- Removing the ‘gag clause’ so registered health practitioners can raise VAD as an option during end-of-life discussions
- Requiring health practitioners who conscientiously object to provide minimum information to patients
- Extending the eligibility prognosis from six months to 12 months
- Allowing people with neurodegenerative diseases to require the consent of two doctors instead of three if their expected lifespan is between six and 12 months
- Introducing a new ‘administering practitioner’ role to expand the workforce able to support VAD access
“There are only two doctors in Mildura able to support VAD cases,” Ms Benham said.
