Right to Life UK highlights rising euthanasia rates in Victoria, Australia

The advocacy group Right to Life UK has cited data from the Australian state of Victoria to argue against the legalization of assisted suicide in Britain. According to the group, Victoria has experienced a 400% increase in euthanasia cases over the past five years, with a 59% rise recorded in the year ending June 30. Statistics indicate that euthanasia now accounts for 1.1% of all deaths in the state, compared to 0.3% in the 2019-2020 period. Additionally, reports show a 50% increase in applicants who did not utilize palliative care services.

This report follows a recent vote in the British House of Commons, where members rejected a proposal to legalize assisted suicide by 286 to 270. While Right to Life UK celebrated the outcome, they emphasized the need for improved palliative and hospice care to ensure such measures remain unnecessary. Meanwhile, Australian authorities are preparing to expand existing laws in 2027, which will include extending the prognosis eligibility limit from six to 12 months.