Issues in Society: Voluntary Euthanasia Debate (PDF)

Euthanasia has been illegal in Australia since the federal government overturned short-lived Northern Territory laws in 1996. Despite it being a crime to assist in euthanasia, prosecutions have been rare. Four decades' worth of opinion polls have shown that a majority of Australians appear to support the legal option of aid-in-dying for those suffering intolerably and without relief near the end of life. Although a significant number of countries and U.S. states have legalised euthanasia and assisted suicide in recent years, Australian federal and state governments have continued to debate the political, legal and ethical implications of legalised voluntary euthanasia. What are the many ethical, religious and practical arguments asserted by those who champion the "right to life" as opposed to those who assert the "right to choose" when and how to die? Can palliative care always provide adequate pain relief? If legalised, could voluntary euthanasia be the "slippery slope" that leads to involuntary or non-voluntary euthanasia? Is voluntary euthanasia dignity in dying, assisted suicide, or homicide? This book presents a range of considered opinions from Australia's medical profession and opposing pro-life and pro-euthanasia lobby groups. Also includes: Worksheets and activities ; Fast facts ; Glossary ; Web links ; Index.