NSW politicians ponder assisted dying laws

The push to allow terminally ill NSW residents to legally end their own lives will be debated later this year after proposed new laws were tabled in state parliament.

Nationals MP Trevor Khan, who is among those behind the cross-party bill, has delivered an emotional speech lamenting the number of terminally ill patients dying in immense pain, suffering and distress.

Under laws Mr Khan introduced to parliament on Thursday, terminally-ill patients aged over 25 with less than 12 months to live could receive medical support to end their lives.

Safeguards and sanctions designed to protect against coercion and elder abuse were outlined in the bill, along with protections for those who provide assistance.

The laws are expected to be debated by the NSW parliament later this year and decided by a conscience vote.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and opposition leader Luke Foley will oppose the bill.