In his new podcast series Better Off Dead, produced in partnership with the Wheeler Centre, Andrew Denton has been arguing his case for a law allowing assisted dying in Australia. Here, he calls for you to add your voice.
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).
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Many politicians – and, sadly, doctors – like to suggest there is no need for an assisted dying law in Australia because ‘very few people’ actually die badly. From my research, I don’t believe this is true.
For the last year, I've been collecting stories from around Australia as part of a campaign to educate politicians and doctors about the truth of what is happening here. If you're suffering, or someone you love has died badly – in a hospital, in palliative care, in a nursing home, or at home – here's a place to tell your story.