Voluntary Assisted Dying

Course Description:

In the context of aged care, Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) provides an option for residents experiencing intolerable suffering due to advanced illness, where other palliative measures may no longer provide relief. VAD is highly regulated, requiring strict eligibility assessments, multiple medical approvals, and adherence to state or territory legislation. Aged care staff play a supportive role, ensuring residents are informed of their options, facilitating access to healthcare providers, respecting the resident’s decision, and maintaining person-centred, culturally safe care.

Learning Outcomes:

To equip aged care staff with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand the legal, ethical, and practical aspects of Voluntary Assisted Dying, and to provide safe, compassionate, and person-centred support to residents and their families while respecting resident rights and organisational policies.

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• • Explain what Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is
  • Identify who is eligible to access VAD
  • Identify their legal obligations when an individual accesses VAD
  • Describe differences between palliative care, end-of-life care and VAD
  • Outline their role in VAD

Who is this course appropriate for:

This course is appropriate for care and clinical staff.

View the trailer below to preview the course: