New research from The Australia Institute shows more than 4 in 5 South Australians (83%) want the state to legislate Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws based on the model that has already been implemented in Victoria.
The Australia Institute surveyed 511 South Australians about VAD laws between 9 and 26 February 2021 in the lead up to the issue being debated in the South Australian State Parliament.
Key Findings:
- More than 4 in 5 South Australians (83%) support VAD laws based on the Victorian model being adopted in the state.
- Just one in 10 (10%) are opposed.
- Support for the Victorian model is high among all voter types, with 80% of Coalition voters, 84% of Labor voters and 97% of Greens voters backing the laws.
- Support for the Victorian model is high among all age groups, with 88% of those 18-34 years old, 79% of those aged 35-54 years old and 84% of those aged 55 years or older supporting the reform.
"The overwhelming support for voluntary assisted dying laws in South Australia spans across the political spectrum and all age groups in the community," said Noah Schultz-Byard, South Australian Director at The Australia Institute.
"It doesn't matter how old people are or who they vote for. South Australians want their Parliament to get on with this reform.
"Voluntary assisted dying laws have been strongly supported in South Australia for some time. Now, our research shows that there is strong support for the Victorian model of voluntary assisted dying which has been in place and working across the border for 18 months.
"As Upper House MPs prepare to vote on this legislation, the extraordinary level of community support for passing these laws is clear. While one in 10 voters do oppose the reform, the vast majority of South Australians are ready to move forward with voluntary assisted dying reform in the state."
