Both the Labor and the Liberal parties allowed members a conscience vote on the issue, which seeks to allow people with end-stage terminal illnesses the choice to end their lives.

In the ordinary run of things, Kiama MP Gareth Ward and Shellharbour MP Anna Watson often bitterly disagree.

However on this issue they, along with Member for Wollongong Paul Scully and Member for Keira Ryan Park, are all firmly in the "yes" camp.

"It's not the government's death, it's your death," Mr Ward said.

"Because I'm an Anglican I wouldn't want to do this, but if you are terminally ill, in pain and suffering it shouldn't be the government that tells you you must stay alive in that condition."

Ms Watson agreed it was about choice.

"I don't think it's my job or the job of any other MP to take away a person's right to choose, and that's why I support the bill," she said.

The bill has been passed by the state's lower house in a convincing vote following a marathon conscience debate.

The bill now goes to the upper house for an inquiry and debate in the new year.

Mr Scully said he had only been involved in one conscience vote issue previously, and they brought a unique set of challenges.

"At a personal level a conscience vote is often harder, and it changes the dynamic of the parliament," he said.

"But it does focus the mind on exploring all the different views associated with the issue.

"I know there are some individuals locally who do oppose the bill, but the overwhelming majority of people in our region have been supportive.

"It wasn't one story or one person's experience that got me to this point, but the idea that people should have some command over decision making at the end of their life, whether it's a choice they want to take or not."

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Mr Park said his choice has been simple - voluntary assisted dying is something he has always supported.

"I understand not everyone in my community supports my view on this legislation," he said.

"I appreciate the time and effort they have made to express their different perspectives.

"However I believe this reform will enable terminally ill people to end their suffering in a way that is as dignified as possible.

"My Nanna has been in my thoughts every step of the way as the debate and votes took place.

"I wish that this option was in place when a stroke caused you years of pain and suffering."

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