Story perspectives

Victoria's VAD Act Reforms Enhance Access and Clarity

10/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Mary-Anne Thomas, Victorian Health Minister, announced amendments to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017 to improve accessibility and clarity.
The amendments remove the gag clause to allow doctors to discuss VAD openly with patients.
The amendments extend the life-expectancy eligibility from six to twelve months.
The amendments introduce a new administering practitioner to support VAD.
The reforms respond to a five-year review noting barriers to access in rural areas.

1 of 1

Story summary

Mary-Anne Thomas, Victorian Health Minister, announced amendments to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017 to improve accessibility and clarity.
The amendments remove the gag clause to allow doctors to discuss VAD openly with patients.
The amendments extend the life-expectancy eligibility from six to twelve months.
The amendments introduce a new administering practitioner to support VAD.
The reforms respond to a five-year review noting barriers to access in rural areas.