Just last month, The Border Mail told the story of the widow of Wodonga man Colin Wragg, who fatally overdosed after decades of pain, with his wife Susan saying euthanasia laws are needed to let the severely sick “die humanely and quickly”.

The nuances and arguments associated with the assisted-dying legislation currently before Victorian Parliament have been well documented.

The legislation proposed is more conservative and comprehensive than any that exists in the few countries that have legalised assisted dying.

It has many good safeguards against coercion, undue haste, or the exploitation of the mentally ill or vulnerable.

It is only for the terminally ill, and only with independent medical authorisation.

It is designed that way in part to give it the best chance to pass this week's conscience vote. 

Premier Daniel Andrews is one to have changed his position on assisted dying after the death of his father Bob. Earlier this week he spoke of the Wangaratta farmer’s final days in hospital in 2014 in what he called "a good death".

“When you go through that and experience that and know it so deeply and personally, that can't help but frame your understanding and your empathy for those who cannot be described as having a good death,” he said.

Mr Andrews is right about that. This is an issue that is deeply personal and for many, shaped by painful experience.

Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy said he made the tough decision to oppose the euthanasia bill because he did not want Victoria “to become the state where people relocate to die.”

Compared to how ugly the same-sex marriage debate has become, this one – which will potentially affect far more people – has been far more respectful. 

Whether the bill passes or not, it is vital that palliative care is funded appropriately and extended and improved.

The legislation should form part of a move towards a better death all over the country.

Nowhere should the choice be between assisted dying or unacceptable palliative care.

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