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AAP
AAP
Health
Tim Dornin

Funds approved for SA assisted dying laws

Much work is being done to ensure the assisted dying laws are introduced safely, Chris Picton says. (David Mariuz/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Specialist pharmacists and care navigators are being recruited with the South Australian government allocating $18 million over five years to implement new assisted dying laws.

The new provisions come into force on January 31 after being passed by state parliament last year.

A newly appointed lead voluntary assisted dying pharmacist will have a team of three senior pharmacists and a pharmacy technician to allow for the supply and safe disposal of medications in accordance with the state's legislative safeguards.

While the care navigators will help patients, their families and health practitioners to navigate the voluntary euthanasia process.

Health Minister Chris Picton said implementing voluntary assisted dying in South Australia was a significant milestone and much work was being done to ensure it was introduced safely.

"Appointing appropriately qualified staff will be crucial in ensuring the service aligns with the act and the rights of South Australians living with a terminal illness are protected," Mr Picton said on Monday.

"That is why these positions are critical and each recruitment has been based on significant experience with and knowledge of voluntary assisted dying."

SA's voluntary euthanasia or assisted dying laws were passed by state parliament in 2021 but were only gazetted in August.

The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill had been put to a conscience vote, passing the parliament on its 17th attempt in 25 years.

It includes 70 safeguards and a provision that people wishing to die must be SA residents for at least 12 months.

A terminal diagnosis and a life expectancy of less than six months, or 12 months for a person with a neurodegenerative disease, must be confirmed for a patient to access the procedure.

The bill also requires patients show they have decision-making capacity and are capable of informed consent, and that they undergo an assessment by two independent medical practitioners.

They must have their request verified by two independent witnesses and must be experiencing intolerable suffering that cannot be relieved.

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