Bulletin 4: Has A Bill Already Been Passed?

24th March 2008

Has a Physician Assisted Dying Bill (PAD-see Bulletin 2) been passed in the Victorian Parliament already? Surprisingly, the answer is yes!

Let me explain.

Many people make the assumption that interest in dying with dignity is the domain of the elderly. The assumption is quite wrong. It is of compelling interest right across the community.

In September 2006, a team of budding Parliamentarians, lead by Briana Packett, introduced a PAD Bill into Youth Parliament. The bill was debated strictly according to parliamentary procedure, some minor amendments made, and the bill was passed.

The message is clear: dying with dignity is not just the province of us "oldies"—it is of importance to Victorians of all ages.

Youth Parliament PAD Bill sponsors (from left): Briana Packett, Jarryd Strafford,
Amy McLean, Chris Cousens, Stacey Cordina and Mariah LeRoy.

Now is the time for the elected Parliament to catch up with those who will follow them, and with the overwhelming majority of Victorians (see Bulletin 3), on Physician Assisted Dying.

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Next bulletin: Of course, elected Members must apply a greater degree of due diligence than does Youth Parliament...so what are the procedures and safeguards provided for in the PAD Bill?