In a significant development for end-of-life legislation in New South Wales, Greens MP Amanda Cohn has firmly opposed a voluntary assisted dying bill put forward by conservative MP Susan Carter. The move highlights deepening political divisions over how to best implement compassionate end-of-life care across the state.
Dr Cohn, who serves as the Greens' spokesperson for health, expressed serious concerns that the proposed legislation would create what she described as "unnecessary and cruel barriers" for terminally ill patients seeking to end their suffering. The bill, introduced by the Christian Democratic Party member, has sparked intense debate about the balance between safeguards and accessibility in voluntary assisted dying laws.
Why This VAD Bill Faces Opposition
According to Dr Cohn, the legislation contains provisions that would make it exceptionally difficult for patients to access voluntary assisted dying services. She argues that the proposed requirements go far beyond what medical professionals consider reasonable and could effectively prevent many legitimate cases from proceeding.
"This bill doesn't represent genuine voluntary assisted dying reform," Dr Cohn stated. "Instead, it creates a framework so restrictive that it would be nearly impossible for those in genuine need to access these services."
The Political Battle Over End-of-Life Choices
The controversy comes as NSW continues to navigate the complex implementation of its voluntary assisted dying laws, which passed parliament in 2022 after decades of campaigning. Dr Cohn's opposition signals ongoing tension between progressive and conservative approaches to the legislation's practical application.
Supporters of Susan Carter's bill argue that strong safeguards are necessary to protect vulnerable patients, while critics like Dr Cohn maintain that excessive restrictions undermine the very purpose of voluntary assisted dying laws.
What's Next for VAD in NSW?
The Greens have pledged to continue advocating for what they describe as "truly compassionate" voluntary assisted dying laws that balance appropriate safeguards with reasonable access. Dr Cohn emphasized that any legislation must respect the autonomy of terminally ill patients while ensuring proper medical oversight.
As the debate continues, all eyes remain on the NSW Parliament to see how this sensitive issue will be resolved, with thousands of Australians potentially affected by the outcome of this political standoff.
