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International Women's Day: Greens launch campaign to decriminalise abortion in NSW
Sunday, 08 March 2009
Greens MP and health spokesperson Lee Rhiannon is marking International Women's Day by launching a campaign to decriminalise abortion in NSW. She says NSW is out of step with Victoria, the ACT and Western Australia which have modernised abortion laws.
“On International Women’s Day the Greens are calling on Premier Rees to reform abortion laws to guarantee women access to legal, safe and affordable abortions in NSW," Ms Rhiannon said.
“It’s time to change the outdated laws in NSW that still make abortion a crime.
“NSW has been left behind by states like Victoria and the ACT which now treat abortion as a health not a criminal matter. The ACT completely decriminalised abortion in 2002, Victoria modernised its laws in 2008 and WA in 1998.
"NSW women would be forgiven for asking Premier Rees, 'if they can do it, why can't we?'.
"In 2009 it is a surprise to many women to find out that criminal laws still regulate this very personal decision.
“It is not good enough that women and doctors have to rely on court judgements to spell out when abortion is legal. At any time a conservative judge or police commissioner can change the status quo, further restricting women's rights.
"The potential for criminal prosecution creates concern for women and doctors. It contributes to stigma, humiliation and distress and risks that women will delay abortions.
"Those working in the field also report the criminal laws deter health professionals working in the area and contribute to staff shortages.
“Research shows that legalising abortion will not increase the number of abortions – education and contraception are the key to keeping abortion rates down.
"The reality is that many women access abortion services in NSW. It is estimated that 1 in 3 Australian women have an abortion, with 1 in 4 pregnancies terminated. A majority of Australians support a woman’s right to choose.
“Clear, modern new health laws regulating abortion should be Premier Rees’ gift to women on International Women’s Day.
"If Premier Rees fails to step up to the job the Greens will introduce our own private members' bill.
For more information: Lee Rhiannon 0427 861 568
See the Abortion law reform campaign page - http://lee.greens.org.au/index.php/content/view/2817/9/