Death on Your Terms: Navigating Voluntary Assisted Dying with Jane Morris

In this episode of "Don't Be Caught Dead", I sit down with Jane Morris, President of Dying with Dignity Victoria, to unpack the complex journey of voluntary assisted dying legislation in Australia. From its controversial beginnings to its current stringent implementation, we delve into the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing struggles in the fight for end-of-life choices.Jane takes us on a captivating historical journey, starting with the formation of the Voluntary Euthanasia Society of Victoria in 1974. We explore pivotal moments like the groundbreaking Rights of the Terminally Ill Act in the Northern Territory in 1995, and the tireless advocacy of Dr Rodney Syme. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the societal and political battles fought over decades, culminating in Victoria's landmark legislation in 2017.But the story doesn't end there. Jane provides an eye-opening look at the current state of voluntary assisted dying in Victoria, detailing the stringent eligibility criteria and complex process individuals must navigate. We discuss the controversial 'gag clause' that prevents doctors from initiating conversations about VAD, and the logistical challenges faced by rural residents. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of where we stand and the work that still needs to be done to ensure dignified end-of-life choices for all Australians.Key points from our discussion:The history of Dying with Dignity Victoria, dating back to 1974The Northern Territory's pioneering but short-lived euthanasia legislation in 1995Dr Rodney Syme's significant contributions to the causeVictoria's current VAD legislation: eligibility criteria and processThe 'gag clause' and its impact on patient awarenessChallenges faced by rural residents in accessing VADThe role of Dying with Dignity Victoria in providing witnessing servicesThe VAD process; Two verbal requests, Assessments by two doctors, written request, witnessed by 2 independent witnesses and then a permit is issuedRemember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.Take care,CatherineDying with Dignity Resources:Find out more here: https://www.dwdv.org.au/ We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)Death is hard, make death admin easy with the Critical Info Platform. It’s a simple, secure system that helps you prepare and share your legacy, wishes and personal paperwork.It’s packed with prompts, guides and even a To Do List to help you easily gather critical information for a complete end-of-life plan.Leave behind a legacy, not a mess.Sign up now to your free trial at critical info.com.auNo credit card needed. Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays — free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.No pressure. No expectation.Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” — it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.SUPPORT SERVICESIf you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.Support the showSupport the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22aMusic composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/