A key step in an application for voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in the ACT is the written Second Request form, which the person must sign in the presence of two eligible adult witnesses.
Some people have difficulty finding people to act as their witnesses, or prefer not to involve family or friends.
The role of the witnesses is to certify that the person makes the Second Request declaration voluntarily and without coercion.
DWDACT has developed a witness program to recruit and train DWD supporters across the ACT region to assist these people when witnesses are needed. The ACT VAD Care Navigator Service initiates any request to DWDACT for witnesses.
Persons interested in joining our witness program need to do a short (3 hour) witness training course. Courses are scheduled from time to time as the need arises. If you would like to volunteer as a witness, contact us via email witness@dwdact.org.au