A prominent Perth academic who marked his 104th birthday this month will travel to Switzerland to end his life through assisted suicide, a parliamentary inquiry has heard.
Controversial euthanasia campaigner Phillip Nitschke told a hearing on Friday his group Exit International will assist scientist David Goodall make his final journey "as soon as possible."
Dr Goodall does not have a terminal illness but his quality of life has reportedly deteriorated in recent months.
Dr Nitschke says Dr Goodall, who has been a member of the pro-euthanasia organisation for more than 20 years, has no choice due to WA's current laws on voluntary-assisted dying.
"The only lawful option he has left is to travel to Switzerland," Dr Nitschke said.
He said WA should avoid "inhumane" safeguards included in the Victorian legislation adopted in November.
A six-month time frame before dying patients could access voluntary assisted death would likely be challenged in court, the inquiry heard.
"What we're talking about here is suffering. It's extremely difficult to put a timeline on terminal illness," Dr Nitschke said.
"My personal opinion is if we reason there's a right to life, then everyone has a right to dispose of it."
Dr Nitschke, who now lives in the Netherlands, conducted the world's first legal, doctor-assisted death more than 20 years ago after the Northern Territory became the first jurisdiction to introduce voluntary euthanasia.
The laws were later scuttled by the Howard government.
TV personality Andrew Denton will also address the inquiry later on Friday on behalf of pro-euthanasia group Go Gentle Australia.
In his written submission, Mr Denton said it was untrue increasing resources for palliative care would rid the need for voluntary euthanasia.
"The words and statistics from palliative care tell us so, as do the many testimonies from families of those who have died badly, despite the best that palliative care can offer," he said.
Mr Denton argues there is a difference between pain and suffering.
"Pain can, in most cases, be dealt with. But suffering, which is multi-faceted and at many levels is the heart of the matter," he said.
The parliamentary committee is expected to deliver its findings by August 23, paving the way for a free parliamentary vote on voluntary euthanasia.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.
