Since late 2013, Maxim Institute has undertaken a stream of research into the legal and policy arguments regarding euthanasia and the international experience of legalised assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia. Our research has convinced us that the current legal situation is one that best recognises the equal dignity and value of human life, and that offers an appropriate balance between protecting society and upholding and respecting the rights of individuals to make autonomous decisions about their lives.

This submission provides responses to numbers three and four of the Health Select Committee’s Terms of Reference. In sum, we have found that legalised euthanasia and/or assisted suicide presents dangers to public safety, and to vulnerable people in particular, that outweigh any potential benefits to be found in a change in the law.