Voluntary assisted dying uptake in WA far higher than predicted

Key points

• Almost 3 per cent of deaths in Western Australia now occur through voluntary assisted dying, well above what was predicted when the law took effect in July 2021. The annual report recorded 541 deaths last year, about a 12 per cent rise on the previous year.
• Colin Holt, chair of the VAD board, said more people are aware the option exists for a terminal diagnosis. Eight doctors performed 53 per cent of practitioner-administered deaths, and Mr Holt called for more practitioners.
• The board is also reviewing whether time limits are too restrictive.