Victorian Labor puts reproductive rights on election agenda as it warns One Nation could try to wind back abortion access
Summary
The Victorian Labor government in Australia is introducing portable ultrasound machines to improve access to medical abortion, especially for women in regional areas. The party warns that the One Nation political party could try to limit abortion rights if it gains power, while the opposition says it will not change current abortion laws.Key Facts
- Victorian Labor will provide portable ultrasound machines to 20 sexual and reproductive health centers.
- These machines help confirm early pregnancies, allowing women to access medical abortion within nine weeks.
- Medical abortion is a drug-based procedure that can be used up to nine weeks of pregnancy.
- Abortion was decriminalized in Victoria in 2008, allowing termination up to 24 weeks with doctor approval.
- Labor has introduced safe access zones around clinics and mobile and virtual health clinics to improve abortion care.
- One Nation’s platform includes plans to reduce access to abortion, though its federal leader says she supports abortion in the first trimester.
- The opposition leader, Jess Wilson, promises no changes to abortion laws if the Coalition wins the election.
- Victoria’s deputy premier is concerned One Nation could have influence if the Coalition does not win a majority.
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