Opponents of assisted dying in Australia want to leave things as they are, because of the worrying things they claim might happen if we did have a law.
But what about the worrying things that actually are happening because we don’t have one?
Episode 4 of Better Off Dead sees Andrew Denton investigating the stories of people – doctors and ordinary people – who've gone outside the law to do what they believe is in accordance with the wishes and best interests of their loved ones. What he finds is a complicated set of ad hoc arrangements where doctors are not accountable, patient access is inconsistent – and figures closely involved with enforcing the law want to see it changed.
Listen to episode 4 here, and subscribe at wheelercentre.com/betteroffdead.
Please note: this podcast is not about suicide. If you are interested in increasing your understanding of suicide and how to support someone experiencing suicidal ideation, visit the Conversations Matter or beyondblue websites.
If you (or someone you know) require immediate assistance, contact one of the following 24/7 crisis support services: Lifeline (13 11 14), Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467), MensLine (1300 78 99 78), beyondblue (1300 22 4636), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) or eheadspace (1800 650 890).