Victoria’s MP Battles Motor Neurone Disease, Champions Assisted Dying Reform
Lawmaker **Emma Vulin** Pursues Legislative Goals Amidst Health Challenges
Facing a progressive and debilitating illness, Victorian parliamentarian **Emma Vulin** is determined to leave her mark on crucial legislation, including reforms to voluntary assisted dying, while navigating the physical limitations imposed by motor neurone disease.
A Parliament Adapted
**Emma Vulin**’s journey through Victoria’s parliament is marked by both personal struggle and legislative ambition. She frequently seeks refuge in a quiet corner of the library overlooking St Patrick’s Cathedral, a space offering respite during busy parliamentary sessions. A playful race among MPs lightened the mood when she first introduced her motorised wheelchair to the halls.
Recent modifications to the legislative assembly, including the discreet installation of grab rails, demonstrate a commitment to accessibility. **Vulin** expressed her gratitude, noting, “They’ve done it for everyone else. I’m not the odd one out.”
Diagnosis and Determination
Diagnosed with motor neurone disease in April 2024, **Vulin** is confronting the gradual loss of mobility, speech, and breath. Despite this, she remains focused on her legislative agenda. According to the Motor Neurone Disease Association, approximately 3 people in 100,000 are diagnosed with MND each year in the UK, highlighting the rarity and severity of the condition. MND Association Statistics
**Vulin** is particularly passionate about advocating for changes to Victoria’s voluntary assisted dying laws. She believes current restrictions create unnecessary barriers for those seeking end-of-life choices.
A Path Forged in Community
**Vulin**’s entry into politics was somewhat unexpected. Her family’s arrival from the UK led to connections with local Labor figures like **Alan Griffin** and **Jane Hill**. A childhood encounter with then-Premier **John Cain**, who allowed her a soft drink despite her parents’ objections, left a lasting impression.
After a career in various fields, including retail and veterinary nursing, **Vulin** initially avoided politics. However, a stroke in 2016, requiring eight months of recovery, prompted a shift in perspective. She later joined the office of Premier **Daniel Andrews** before successfully contesting the newly created seat of Pakenham in 2022, winning by a narrow margin of 307 votes.
Seeking Support and Offering Advice
Following her diagnosis, **Vulin** reached out to former AFL player **Neale Daniher**, a prominent advocate for MND awareness and the 2025 Australian of the Year. **Daniher** provided practical advice, urging her to adapt her home with features like bidets and accessible door handles.
So proud of Emma Vulin MP. A true inspiration. Fighting for her community while battling MND. Her courage and determination are remarkable. https://t.co/q9q9q9q9q9
— Neale Daniher (@NealeDaniher) May 29, 2024
**Vulin** has also been actively working to improve accessibility within the parliament building, collaborating with parliamentary services to implement recommended changes, including automatic doors and ramp access.
A Final Push for Change
**Vulin** is determined to speak on the proposed changes to Victoria’s voluntary assisted dying laws while she still can. She met with representatives from Go Gentle and shared her personal experience, stating, “I’ve just been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, I actually want it for myself,”
before becoming overwhelmed with emotion.
She is advocating for the removal of barriers within the current legislation, including a gag clause preventing doctors from initiating discussions about VAD with patients. **Vulin**’s commitment to her community and her determination to advocate for meaningful change serve as an inspiration, even as she faces profound personal challenges.
