Episode 21 – From Advocacy to Law: The Evolution of VAD in New Zealand episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 23, 2026 · 43 MIN

Episode 21 – From Advocacy to Law: The Evolution of VAD in New Zealand

from Voices From Voluntary Assisted Dying · host Dr Laureen Lawlor-Smith

Voluntary assisted dying can provide dignity and relief at the end of life, but legislation must balance access with safeguards. Ann David, former President of New Zealand’s End of Life Choice Society, shares her personal journey into advocacy, explains how New Zealand’s VAD law was passed and implemented, outlines key differences from Australian models, and discusses proposed reforms aimed at improving access, eligibility, and protections for patients.   Comprehensive information on Voluntary Assisted Dying in Your State is provided on the Go Gentle website  at https://www.gogentleaustralia.org.au/vad_in_your_state or by contacting your State Health Department.  If listening to this podcast raises distressing issues for you, please contact one of the following support services: Griefline (https://griefline.org.au/) 1300 845 745 Grief Australia (https://www.grief.org.au/) 1800 642 745 Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 13 11 14, or chat online 24 hours a daySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Mar 23, 2026

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Episode 21 – From Advocacy to Law: The Evolution of VAD in New Zealand

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