Seriously ill Australians and healthcare advocates are renewing calls for changes to federal laws that prevent doctors from using telehealth services during voluntary assisted dying (VAD) processes. Supporters argue the current restrictions create unnecessary difficulties for patients who are terminally ill, particularly those living in regional and remote communities who may struggle to travel long distances to access specialist medical appointments.
Voluntary assisted dying is legal in all Australian states and the Australian Capital Territory for eligible patients who meet strict requirements. However, federal legislation restricts the use of electronic communication, including phone and video consultations, in discussions connected to VAD. Doctors and advocates say this creates a significant challenge for people nearing the end of life who may have limited mobility or live far away from qualified medical practitioners.
The issue has been highlighted by end-of-life advocates, including Go Gentle Australia, who argue that modern healthcare relies heavily on telehealth and that the same access should be available for eligible patients considering voluntary assisted dying. They say preventing doctors from communicating through digital platforms can delay important conversations and add emotional and physical pressure on patients and families.
Regional Australians are among those most affected by the restriction. Many towns have fewer doctors trained in voluntary assisted dying care, meaning patients may need to travel hundreds of kilometres for appointments. For people with serious illnesses, frequent travel can be physically exhausting and emotionally challenging. Advocates say telehealth could help provide timely medical discussions while maintaining appropriate safeguards.
Doctors involved in end-of-life care have also raised concerns that the current rules do not reflect the realities of modern medicine. They argue telehealth has become an important tool for connecting patients with specialists, especially when distance, illness or disability makes face-to-face appointments difficult.
Opponents of changing the law have previously raised concerns about ensuring strong protections remain in place for vulnerable patients. They argue that voluntary assisted dying decisions require careful assessment, safeguards and appropriate medical oversight.
The debate has reached the federal parliament, with advocates calling for amendments to clarify that voluntary assisted dying should not be treated in the same way as unlawful activities involving suicide encouragement. Supporters of reform say changing the law would allow doctors to provide better access while maintaining existing eligibility checks and safety requirements.
The discussion comes as Australia continues to adapt healthcare systems following the rapid growth of telehealth services. Remote consultations are now widely used for many medical needs, including specialist appointments, follow-up care and support for people living with chronic conditions.
For patients facing terminal illness, advocates say access to timely and compassionate care is essential. They argue that location should not determine whether someone can have important conversations with qualified doctors about end-of-life choices.
The federal government continues to consider issues surrounding voluntary assisted dying laws and the relationship between state-based VAD programs and federal communications legislation.
