The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) have signed a Joint Statement, coordinated by Go Gentle Australia, calling for reform of the Commonwealth Criminal Code to allow electronic communication methods to be used, where clinically appropriate, in the delivery of voluntary assisted dying care.

Electronic communication is essential for high-quality and safe health care. However, the Cth Criminal
Code’s restriction on how health professionals communicate about voluntary assisted dying (VAD) is
causing disruptions and delays in care, and limiting health professionals’ ability to do their jobs.

The prohibition of electronic communication for VAD care disadvantages people who are unable to travel for
face-to-face consultations due to the complexity of their medical condition or because they live in a rural or
remote area. Essential communications between health professionals are also negatively impacted.

It should be for health professionals and their patients to decide if electronic communications are an
appropriate alternative to in-person care.

• Read the Joint Statement