On Friday 12 November 2021 Dying with Dignity NSW welcomed the start of debate on the NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill in the Lower House.

Dying with Dignity NSW President, Penny Hackett said “Today is a milestone moment in our campaign for voluntary assisted dying law reform in NSW that brings a sense of relief for the thousands of volunteers who have fought so hard for so many years to make this happen.

“This is a campaign where every day matters. We want to see this Bill voted on in the Lower House before the end of the year. There’s no excuse for further delays.

“There are people with a terminal illness who are suffering right now, who want the option to die with dignity when it comes to the end of their life.

“Every day that this law is delayed, more people will be forced to endure unbearable and prolonged suffering at the end of their life.

“People with a terminal illness and their loved ones have found it incredibly frustrating and disheartening to see political games being played in the past few weeks. We hope that’s the last we see of it.

“We want to see a genuine debate on this Bill with enough time allocated so that it can be voted on before the end of the year.

“Voluntary assisted dying law reform is supported by over 80% of the NSW population, as well as major health groups and frontline workers.

“We’re looking forward to a respectful debate and hope that MPs have seriously considered the views of their electorates.

“Vote Compass data shows that every single electorate in NSW has an overwhelming majority support for voluntary assisted dying law reform – so there’s absolutely no excuse for any MP to get in the way of this important reform.”