An announcement: Anglicare approach to VAD Act 2022

In late November 2023, the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2022 (NSW) (VAD Act) will commence. Subject to strict eligibility criteria, that Act provides (on commencement) a legal process for NSW residents who are suffering from an advanced and progressive life limiting condition a choice to end their own life under medical supervision.
 
In line with a Biblical worldview, Anglicare believes in the dignity and worth of every person, regardless of their circumstances. Anglicare is opposed to physician-assisted suicide in any form and is instead committed to providing life-affirming care and choice, including palliative care that supports a person's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We prioritise active empathy, dignified and enriched living, and excellent palliative care support, while promoting natural dying and collaborative decision-making for symptom management.
 
Anglicare will comply with its statutory obligations under the VAD Act. In accordance with Section 89 of that Act, Anglicare has decided that it will not provide services relating to voluntary assisted dying at Anglicare facilities. This means Anglicare and our staff will refuse to participate in the request and assessment process, participate in an administration decision, prescribe, supply or administer a voluntary assisted dying substance, store a voluntary assisted dying substance or be present at the time of administration or self-administration.
 
If a resident at an Anglicare facility seeks information on voluntary assisted dying, they can do so from NSW Health or their medical practitioner.
 
We respect every individual’s independence by considering each person as being open to a well-informed consideration of the life choices before them. We will be providing our staff with further information, training, skills, resources and methods on these matters shortly.