In 1997, the Northern Territory passed the first legislation in the world allowing for euthanasia (the intentional killing of another) to be performed under specific circumstances and provided certain criteria were met. That Act, known as the Rights of the Terminally Ill Act was repealed (cancelled) shortly afterwards.
There is now no legislation in Australia that allows or has the effect of allowing euthanasia. Legislation was recently passed in the Netherlands allowing euthanasia in certain circumstances.
Accordingly, the act of euthanasia remains illegal and subject to penalties under the Criminal Code.
For further information, you could contact the Voluntary Euthanasia Society of Victoria on (03) 9521 3297.
Updated June 2004
