Albanese personally opposed to Labor push on voluntary assisted dying

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has voiced personal opposition to a Labor party proposal that would permit voluntary assisted dying (VAD) consultations via telehealth. While Albanese supports the principle of voluntary euthanasia and the right to die with dignity, he harbors significant concerns about the potential for misuse and the undermining of the existing system if consultations are conducted remotely.

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I think it is important that people have the right to die … with dignity.

The Labor party's 50th national conference adopted a platform commitment to expand VAD access to telehealth services. This move aims to remove barriers for Australians, particularly those in remote and regional areas, who currently face restrictions and potential legal penalties for using telehealth for such consultations. However, Albanese stressed that the decision on whether to introduce legislation to parliament rests with his cabinet, in consultation with the caucus.

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But it's also important that protections be placed around it.

Reflecting on the recent Labor conference, Albanese defended the party's process, asserting that broad consensus exists on the government's direction. He also addressed a separate issue regarding a resolution critical of the Israeli government, stating that the party's platform correctly balances Israel's right to exist with the aspirations of Palestinians for their own state. Albanese indicated he has no issue with delegates expressing their views during the conference.

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That's my position.