A new taboo

Earlier this year, we received a phone call from a village operator. Their voice was steady, but the topic was heavy: a resident had begun the voluntary assisted dying (VAD) process. They wanted to know – had other operators dealt with this?

At the time, we hadn’t.

That same week, another call. Different state, same question.

And in both cases, the calls ended the same way: “This would be a fascinating – and important – topic for DCM Institute to explore during a Professional Development Day.”

Two weeks later, a third call. And again, a clear request: please make space for this conversation. People are looking for guidance. They want to understand what VAD means for their residents, their teams, and themselves.

So, this week, we did just that.

At events in Adelaide and Perth, we invited speakers from state-based VAD agencies to talk with Village Professionals – openly, directly, and without judgment. For many in the audience, this was their first chance to hear real-world experiences, ask questions, and reflect on their role in an evolving landscape.

Several attendees shared their own stories. One spoke about a resident who had completed the VAD process just days earlier.

According to Go Gentle Australia, only 0.5% to 1.5% of all deaths in Australia and New Zealand are assisted. It’s a small number – but judging by the conversations during the breaks, it’s a big topic in people’s minds.

Still, many told us they feel unable to raise it within their organisations. They’re unsure how – or if – they’re allowed – to talk about it at all.

It reminded me of how we used to talk about dementia. Or rather, how we didn’t. Two decades ago, it was a topic many avoided. Now, it’s front and centre at industry conferences. We speak about it in terms of care, diagnosis, support, and duty.

The same shift is beginning with VAD.

Conscientious objection will always be part of this conversation. And rightly so. We must make room for diverse views and values.

We also have a responsibility to prepare. Staff will be asked about VAD. They’ll hear about it from residents, from families, from peers. Some already have.

As leaders, we need to decide: do we keep this topic in the shadows, or do we create safe, informed spaces where people can learn, question, and reflect?

Because one day, someone on your team may face this – professionally and personally. Do we prepare them for this and support them? Or leave them to navigate on their own?

The conversation has started. Are you ready to join it?