Euthanasia

Tuesday 30 September, 2008

Developed with lawyers from Maurice Blackburn Cashman

Euthanasia is deliberately bringing about the death of someone suffering from an incurable and painful disease or condition.

In 1997, the Northern Territory passed the first law in the world allowing for euthanasia 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 That Act, known as the Rights of the Terminally Ill Act, was repealed (cancelled) shortly afterwards.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 law in Australia that allows euthanasia. The act of euthanasia remains illegal and subject to penalties under the Criminal Code.

Law was recently passed in The Netherlands allowing euthanasia in certain circumstances.

For more information, you can contact Dying with Dignity Victoria on 03 9877 7677.

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