The Victorian government is keeping an "open mind" to changes to its controversial assisted dying bill, as a key crossbencher confirmed his support - as long as there are amendments.
Upper house independent James Purcell's support inches the government bill closer to the 21 votes needed to get through the 40-member Legislative Council.
But he wants the 12-month life expectancy diagnosis reduced and for the patient's general practitioner to be included in the process.
"We're absolutely bringing an open mind to any requests that people are putting forward," Health Minister Jill Hennessy told reporters on Monday.
"I'm really encouraged by James Purcell's support for the bill, I know that James has still got a couple of issues that he wants to work through."
Mr Purcell asked his electorate for feedback and spoke to health professionals.
"This is such an emotional and sensitive issue. I understand the desperation of those who support the legislation and also the deep-seated concerns of those opposed," he said in a statement.
"I hope that by passing this legislation we are able to offer choice for those in the final stages of a serious illness."
Ms Hennessy's comments are a slight easing of her and Premier Daniel Andrews' stance at the start of the bill's parliamentary debate.
Ahead of a marathon lower house sitting two weeks ago, Ms Hennessy and Mr Andrews said they would not accept any amendments put forward in the debate.
The bill is now in the 40-member upper house, where debate is expected to start on Thursday and the subsequent vote - possibly in mid-November - is set to be tight.
Politicians from all sides have been subject to intense public and private lobbying over the assisted dying laws.
If any amendments are made, the bill will have to return to the lower house for agreement.
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