Global VAD advocate to address NT ahead of Parliament’s 2026 conscience vote
16 Apr 2026
As the Northern Territory moves toward a conscience vote on voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in 2026, a leading international reform advocate will visit Darwin to outline how assisted dying laws operate safely around the world — and what lessons the NT can draw.
COTA NT and other VAD advocates will host An Audience with Peter Warren, Executive Director of the World Federation of Right to Die Societies, a free community event with Territory-wide livestream access.
Drawing on international experience across multiple jurisdictions, Peter will place the Northern Territory’s journey within the broader global movement for end-of-life choice.
He will explore how assisted dying laws have developed around the world, the safeguards that underpin contemporary legislation, the political and ethical debates that shape reform and the lessons the NT can consider as it prepares to debate its own bill. Peter will invite Territorians to consider the lessons of history, the realities of today and the choices ahead.
“Internationally, assisted dying laws operate with strict eligibility criteria, multiple independent medical assessments, mandatory reporting and ongoing parliamentary oversight,” said Sue Shearer, CEO of COTA NT. “Evidence across jurisdictions shows these safeguards work.”
“As the NT drafts its legislation, there is a historic opportunity for the Territory to take the lead in humane and compassionate lawmaking that can end intolerable suffering. We are delighted to welcome Peter to the Territory at a critical moment in the NT conversation.”
With legislation expected to be introduced mid-2026 and Members of the Legislative Assembly voting according to conscience, the event comes at a pivotal time for the Territory.
- Event: An Audience with Peter Warren, Executive Director of the World Federation of Right to Die Societies
- Date/Time: Monday 20 April, 9.30am to 11am
- Where: Darwin International Tennis Centre, 9 Abala Road, Darwin, NT, Australia, 0812 + livestream Territory-wide (via https://www.facebook.com/COTANorthernTerritory/)
- Cost: Free community event
- Bookings via https://www.cotant.org.au/event/an-audience-with-peter-warren-executive-director-of-the-world-federation-of-right-to-die-societies/ Or call COTA NT on 08 8941 1004 during office hours (Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 3pm)
- Audience Q&A included
MEDIA CONTACT
Sue Shearer, CEO, COTA NT, 0408 987 751