Northern Territory passes voluntary assisted dying law

The Northern Territory parliament has passed the Rights of the Terminally Ill bill, legalizing voluntary assisted dying in the jurisdiction. The bill passed via a conscience vote and includes a provision that limits access to those predicted by doctors to have 12 months or less to live.

The legislation includes a controversial gag clause that prevents healthcare professionals from initiating conversations about end-of-life options with patients. During the debate, government backbencher Tanzil Rahman and Opposition Leader Selina Uibo criticized the clause, arguing it prevents patients, particularly those in aged-care facilities, from making informed choices.

Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby defended the restriction, stating the safeguard is intended to protect vulnerable and terminally ill patients from potential coercion rather than to protect medical staff.