How the APS is involved

The APS has been actively involved in ensuring that psychology has a voice in current debates around end-of-life issues and care.

In 2017, 30 psychologists and others with relevant expertise came together for a roundtable on end of life care and choices. Key presentations on assisted dying legislation, grief and bereavement, palliative care, residential aged care, legal and ethical considerations, and suicide rates in mental health services were followed by focused group discussion. Outcomes of the roundtable are expected to include CPD offerings and other resources to assist psychologists to navigate their potential roles in end-of-life care and choices.

The APS has contributed to a number of State and Commonwealth government inquiries about end of life choices and frameworks both via written submissions and a public hearing.

In 2008, the discussion paper on Psychological perspectives on euthanasia and the terminally ill was updated.