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Take-up bigger than expected: WA's voluntary assisted dying laws one year on

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en-orig
Jul 1, 2022 May 1, 2026
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Voluntary assisted dying in Western Australia has seen higher-than-expected demand in its first year.

Demographics and Conditions

  • •Average age of those who accessed VAD was 73.
  • •Majority had cancer (65%), 15% neurological illness, 8% respiratory condition.
  • •58% men, 42% women; 79% metro, 21% regional.

    • Provider Numbers and Implementation

  • •Started with 8 doctors, now 68 providers (22 in regional WA), but not all active.
  • •Government says program is running smoothly and is part of end-of-life care.

    • Key Takeaways

  • •171 people accessed VAD in the first year.
  • •Take-up was contrary to expectations of wealthy older males.
  • •Other states have followed WA's lead, with calls for federal involvement.

    • Conclusion

    The minister says the program is quietly doing its job as part of end-of-life care.

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