The National Coronial Information System indicates 168 reported self harm related deaths in Queensland during 2016 and 2017, from patients that have suffered from terminal or debilitating illness.
Each month, seven deaths occur as a result of self harm, in patients suffering from conditions such as; terminal cancer, multiple sclerosis and paraplegia.
Whilst the merits of legalising euthanasia in Queensland is a controversially debated topic- a state-wide inquiry is now examining the deceased's conditions as a contributing factor to these deaths.
Clem Jones Trust Chair David Muir states that the policy vacuum on voluntary euthanasia law has emphasised urgency for reform in Queensland.