Dr. Peter Allcroft:

There were many questions in two minutes. Many patients fear being a burden on their family and loved ones. That is considered quite strongly, supported, cared for and acknowledged within palliative care settings. About 80% of patients in Victoria and South Australia have had active involvement with palliative care services. In South Australia, we have a greater percentage of palliative care physicians involved with voluntary assisted dying. I think that is part of that evolution over time. I think it must be noted that the Kissane paper was written by people who hold strong conscientious objection to the legislation. I run the community of practice in South Australia for clinicians. My experience is that the doctors undertaking this role choose to be there. They are very experienced clinicians. They are comfortable with being uncomfortable. When I ask about their wellbeing, they all acknowledge that they are doing okay. I think we see burnout stress when any professional is placed in a position where they are out of control. My experience with all the clinicians I care for as a clinical lead in South Australia, where I run the community of practice, is that they feel their wellbeing is well looked after both professionally and personally. We talk about it quite openly.