rki.news | Sources ABC News
Canberra, August 27: Australia has become the first country where voluntary assisted dying is legally available across every state and territory after the Northern Territory Parliament passed landmark legislation Thursday.
The new law allows eligible terminally ill adults in the Northern Territory to seek medical assistance to end their lives, completing a nationwide legal framework expanded gradually in recent years.
The legislation followed years of debate over eligibility, medical safeguards and the rights of patients facing incurable illnesses and suffering.
Supporters said the law gives terminally ill people greater control over final decisions while requiring strict medical assessments and safeguards.
Opponents have raised ethical and religious concerns, arguing governments should focus on improving palliative care and supporting vulnerable patients.
With the Northern Territory becoming the final Australian jurisdiction to approve voluntary assisted dying, the practice is now legal throughout the country, although eligibility requirements vary between jurisdictions.
The decision marks a major development in Australia’s health and social policy. ABC News reported the legislation passed in a conscience vote, with most lawmakers supporting it.