Assisted death debate reignited

A discussion paper outlining the pros and cons of different right-to-die laws from overseas is expected to be released within the next few weeks.

The feedback will inform a private members bill Premier Lara Giddings and Tasmanian Greens leader Nick McKim will introduce into state Parliament this year as co-sponsors.

Mr McKim said a draft discussion paper on the merits of voluntary euthanasia was being finalised.

''Rather than seeking a discussion on whether or not we should introduce voluntary euthanasia, it will be encouraging discussion around how it should be done,'' he said.

''We will then draft and table legislation that is appropriate for Tasmania, which gives it the best chance of passing the Parliament.''

Ms Giddings said the paper would consider the laws used overseas and suggest an appropriate model for Tasmania.

''Throughout our work on this matter we have acknowledged that legalising voluntary assisted dying is a serious step for any state to take on behalf of its citizens,'' she said.

''But we believe it is possible to carefully and sensitively improve end-of-life decision-making through a safe and regulated legal and medical framework.''

Supporters and opponents of voluntary euthanasia are already lobbying MPs.

Former governor William Cox joined a group of eminent Tasmanians in May to back a website that urged politicians to reject such legislation.

Earlier this year, euthanasia activist Philip Nitschke held a public meeting and ``do-it-yourself'' workshop in Launceston on ways people could choose to die.

Dying with Dignity Tasmania's Margaret Sing said her organisation would send information packs supporting the legislation to Tasmanian MPs.

Anti-euthanasia groups such as the Australian Christian Lobby are expected to send out their own information.

The last time such a law was debated was in 2009 when a Greens bill allowing voluntary euthanasia was defeated.

Mr McKim said he was hopeful this legislation would pass.

''It remains to be seen (if it will pass) but I would expect all MPs to be given a conscience vote and Green MPs will certainly be voting according to their personal views,'' he said.

If the law is passed, Tasmania will become the first state in Australia to decriminalise voluntary euthanasia.