Even less so is the topic of voluntary euthanasia. 

One well-known Australian hoping to change that, as well as pushing for the legalisation of voluntary euthanasia is Andrew Denton (pictured). 

Euthanasia is illegal in Australia, but it is not a crime for a person to take their own life. 

It’s murky territory, but Mr Denton is pushing for clarity, debate and a change in legislation. 

For those that have ever had a close family member or friend dealt with the ugly hand of terminal illness, it’s more than just a difficult time. 

There’s the increasing sickness, dozens of trips to hospitals and medical centres, new drug treatments that may or may not make a difference. 

For an illness such as motor-neurone disease, there is no out. 

Those that are diagnosed with this crippling illness can expect to deteriorate dramatically. 

Fifty per cent of those diagnosed will die within 14 months of diagnosis. 

It is not a pretty disease either (what illness is?). 

It dramatically takes away the person as you know them. 

They lose the ability to speak, talk, walk and can no longer lead a “normal” life. 

If you’ve ever experienced someone close to you with this disease it’s more than terrible. 

For some, this is where they would like to have the option to “die with dignity” or to partake in voluntary euthanasia. 

It’s certainly a difficult subject to talk about, particularly given it is illegal. 

Institutions within Australia are against legalising voluntary euthanasia. 

There are so many arguments for and against the concept, but no real right answer. 

If a person is suffering terribly every day, should they be given the “right” or “allowed” to end their own life? 

The reality is no one wants to be in that situation, but it is the hand they have been dealt. 

While voluntary euthanasia is illegal in Australia, I think it is pleasing that people are having this debate whether or not there are those out there that think it is right or wrong. 

It is a conversation and debate that needs to be hand.