When eligible terminally ill Queenslanders gained legal access to voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in 2023, the legislation contained a built-in review clause designed to ensure the laws remained effective and safe. That clause, as journalist Matt Dennien reports, was triggered in January of this year. However, despite the passing of more than seven months, the review has not been formally announced or begun, prompting questions from advocates and lawmakers.
Former health minister Yvette D'Ath, who shepherded the VAD legislation through Parliament, has publicly speculated on why the review is lagging. According to Dennien's reporting, D'Ath cited the transition to a new government following the October 2024 state election as a likely factor. The new administration, led by Premier Steven Miles, may be prioritising other health issues, she suggested. D'Ath also noted that the complexity of evaluating such a sensitive program – involving patient data, medical practitioner feedback, and community sentiment – requires careful planning and resources.
Voluntary assisted dying became legal in Queensland in January 2023 after years of debate and a comprehensive parliamentary inquiry. The laws were modelled on similar frameworks in Victoria and Western Australia, with strict eligibility criteria including a prognosis of less than 12 months to live, mental capacity, and a voluntary, enduring request. Since then, hundreds of Queenslanders have used the service, according to data from the Queensland Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board.
The statutory review requirement was included to ensure the system adapts to practical challenges and ethical concerns. It was to begin within three years of the laws taking effect – hence the January trigger date. Advocacy group Dying with Dignity Queensland has expressed frustration at the delay, arguing that timely review is essential to identify barriers to access and improve patient care. Conversely, opponents of VAD, including some religious and disability rights organisations, have called for a thorough examination of potential abuses or unintended consequences.
A spokesperson for Queensland Health told the Brisbane Times that the review is 'being scoped' and an announcement is expected 'in due course'. The spokesperson declined to provide a specific timeline, citing the need for consultation with stakeholders including the Australian Medical Association Queensland and the Queensland Law Society.
As the delay continues, D'Ath's comments have reignited debate about the pace of post-legislative scrutiny. For now, patients and practitioners await clarity on when the review – and any subsequent amendments – will begin.