Northern Territory abortion law reforms a win for reproductive freedom
New laws that promote reproductive choice and freedom by removing unnecessary legal barriers to abortion in the Northern Territory have been welcomed by the Human Rights Law Centre.
The Termination of Pregnancy Law Reform Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 passed the Northern Territory Parliament late last night.
The laws bring the Northern Territory in line with abortion laws in other jurisdictions, such as Victoria, by removing an unnecessary and paternalistic requirement for two doctors to decide whether an abortion is reasonable up to 24 weeks gestation. The Bill also makes clear that abortions can be performed after 24 weeks gestation where two doctors consider it to be appropriate in the circumstances.
The reforms address several issues that arose from the way in which abortion was decriminalised in 2017.
Adrianne Walters, Legal Director at the Human Rights Law Centre:
“We commend the Health Minister for her commitment to reproductive health and equality. It’s great to see the Minister follow through on the commitment to address shortcomings in the 2017 decriminalisation of abortion in the Northern Territory.
“Abortion is healthcare. No other healthcare matter is regulated like abortion is. It is vital therefore, that abortion laws promote the right of every person to decide what is best for their bodies and lives.
“These reforms are critical to promoting reproductive health and freedom in the Northern Territory. They limit the unnecessary and paternalistic legal requirement for two doctors to be involved in a patient’s decision about their body. They also remove a dangerous prohibition on abortion that only allowed abortions after 23 weeks gestation where a woman’s life was in danger.
“This win for reproductive choice and freedom is a testament to the tireless advocacy of community advocates and health professionals in the Northern Territory.”
Media contact:
Michelle Bennett, Engagement Director, 0419 100 519, michelle.bennett@hrlc.org.au
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