WA could have opt-out organ donor laws

Western Australia moves to introduce controversial laws to boost transplant rate.

Western Australia could become the first state in Australia to introduce opt-out organ donor laws.

Currently, people must opt-in to the provision, but only 16 per cent of West Australians have signed up to the national organ donor register.

Under a new proposal, all West Australians will automatically donate their organs after they die unless they register their objection.

Health Minister Kim Hames has commissioned his department to prepare a discussion paper that will outline ways to introduce the opt-out system.

When the paper is finished, legislation will be introduced in parliament.

Premier Colin Barnett told reporters on Sunday he was not sure if people would support the idea but hoped they would accept it "in time".

Barnett said he was an organ donor and would like to see more people opt-in for the provision.

"I would urge all West Australians to think about giving that approval as part of their driver's license renewal," he said.

"I've done it and I think many people, if they give it thought, will agree that in the tragedy of a loss of life, then there's a potential to save someone else's life."

The idea was first discussed in March by National Party MP Vince Catania, Liberal MP Joe Francis and Labor MP Martin Whitely, who wanted to introduce a private members bill to parliament.

But after consulting them, Hames agreed to a government-supported investigation. Barnett said it was a "good thing" that Dr Hames was bringing the debate forward.

AAP

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