About voluntary assisted dying
Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) is a legal option for people who have a terminal illness. It allows eligible adults to ask for medical assistance to end their life in a way that is safe, compassionate and dignified.
VAD gives people with a terminal illness and a limited life expectancy the choice to decide the timing and manner of their death.
Western Sydney LHD has been providing VAD services since November 2023, when the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2022 (NSW) took effect.
Who can access voluntary assisted dying
You may be able to access voluntary assisted dying in NSW if you meet all the following criteria. You must:
- be an adult (18 years or older) who is an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or have lived in Australia for at least 3 continuous years.
- have lived in NSW for at least 12 months.
- have an advanced and progressive disease, illness or medical condition.
- have decision-making capacity and act voluntarily.
- be able to make and communicate your requests and decisions about VAD throughout the formal request process.
Where to find more information
The NSW Health voluntary assisted dying website has detailed information for:
- patients considering Voluntary Assisted Dying
- family members, carers and friends
- Aboriginal communities
- people speaking languages other than English.
NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service
The NSW Health Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service is a free telephone service for anyone with questions about voluntary assisted dying. This includes patients, family, carers, and health professionals.
Care navigators can:
- provide general information about voluntary assisted dying in NSW
- help you find authorised voluntary assisted dying practitioners
- connect you to other support and resources.
Contact the service for free information and support:
- Phone: 1300 802 133
- Email: NSLHD-VADCareNavigator@health.nsw.gov.au
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm (excluding public holidays)
- Interpreter help: Call 131 450 and ask to connect to the NSW Voluntary Assisted Dying Care Navigator Service
Western Sydney Voluntary Assisted Dying Service
The Western Sydney VAD Service provides support and information for people in the Western Sydney LHD.
- Phone: 0429 277 997 or 0497 701 138
- Email: WSLHD-VoluntaryAssistedDying@health.nsw.gov.au
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Enquiries are welcome from patients, families and friends.
You do not need a doctor’s referral.
E-referrals and RBM referrals are encouraged from WSLHD facilities.