Can I apply for VAD even if I am not sure I will use it?

Australia · 29 August 2026 · 5 min read · Reviewed by Dr Kane Treble

In places where voluntary assisted dying (VAD) is operating, a person can usually ask for information, start the process, and later decide not to continue.

General information: This page gives general information for people in Australia. It cannot tell you whether you are eligible or what you should choose. VAD laws differ by state and territory, so confirm the current rules with the official VAD care navigator service, doctor or authorised VAD practitioner where you live.

In places where voluntary assisted dying (VAD) is operating, a person can usually ask for information, start the process, and later decide not to continue. Being assessed as eligible does not mean you must use the VAD substance.

This is one reason some people ask early. They want to know whether the option exists, even if they are not sure what they will choose later.

Applying does not mean you have to go ahead

VAD is voluntary. Several official sources say a person can stop the process. Queensland says people can stop at any point and that people assessed as eligible may never choose to use VAD. NSW says a person can pause or stop the process at any time and does not need to give a reason. Victoria says a person can change their mind at any time up until taking the medication.

Tasmania's Act also allows a person to withdraw from the VAD process. Other jurisdictions have their own wording.

The practical steps after eligibility differ. In some places, the person may decide later whether to self-administer the substance or request practitioner administration, if both options are available under the local law. There may also be contact person, pharmacy and storage rules.

Why some people start before they are certain

People may start the process because they want:

clear information
time to think
to know whether they meet the criteria
to avoid leaving paperwork until they are very unwell
to have a choice available later
to talk openly with their doctor and family

Other people decide not to start unless they feel certain. Both responses are understandable.

You must still be making a genuine request

There is a difference between asking for information and making a formal first request. If you only want information, say that.

If you make a first request, the practitioner needs to understand that you are asking to start the VAD pathway. You can still be unsure whether you will use the VAD substance later, but the request itself should be voluntary and clear.

You can say:

"I want to start the VAD assessment process. I am not sure whether I will use it, but I want to know whether I am eligible."

Ask your practitioner or care navigator whether that wording is suitable in your jurisdiction.

You can keep receiving palliative care

Asking about VAD does not mean palliative care stops. You can receive palliative care while asking about VAD, while being assessed, or after deciding not to continue.

Palliative care can help with pain, breathlessness, nausea, anxiety, sleep, family support, care at home, equipment and planning. It can also help people who are unsure about VAD work out what suffering may be eased in other ways.

What if I change my mind?

Tell your coordinating practitioner, VAD practitioner or care navigator. Ask what needs to be recorded and whether any forms or notifications are required.

If you stop the process and later change your mind again, you may be able to make a new first request, depending on your state or territory and your situation. Your eligibility would need to be assessed at that time.

What about the Northern Territory?

The NT legislation portal recorded the Rights of the Terminally Ill Bill 2026 as passed on 27 August 2026. I could not verify an official commencement date or operating pathway. Until official NT sources confirm the scheme is operating, people in the NT should not assume they can apply for VAD there.

When to get help now

If you are unsure because symptoms are escalating, contact your treating team, palliative care service, GP, nurse or after-hours health service. Call 000 in a life-threatening emergency.

If the uncertainty comes with immediate distress or thoughts of self-harm outside a lawful VAD process, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000 if there is immediate danger.